Potty training

[Cathy Lentz]

Help! My goldendoodle is 6 months old, doesn't consistently, in fact rarely asks to be taken out and has several accidents per week, usually when I'm busy doing something. We take her out at least 10 times throughout the day and evening and are at a loss for what else we can do!?!?

[Amy, Cubbie & Ollie]

     We got Cubbie when he was 5 months old and after that experience, I don't think I could handle an 8 week old puppy!!   I am a little OCD when it comes to tracking things and figuring things out, so I ended up writing down notes everytime we took Cubbie out to potty.  I would write down the time of day, what he did when he was out there (1 and/or 2).  We would write down when we fed him and how much he ate.  It was a little extra work but it really helped us to figure out his schedule and make sure we were taking him out when necessary. 

     I would also be sure to keep an eye on your pup.  Whenever Cubbie would start to wander around the house or room, we would immediately take him outside to see if he had to go (better safe than sorry!!!).  A friend of mine told me to give him treats whenever he properly did his "business" outside.  I think I tried it once or twice but never could seem to remember to take treats out into the backyard with me. 

     I would also suggest that you keep an eye on when your puppy drinks.  Once she drinks you can take her out 15 minutes later to see if she has to go.  And if you know you are going to be busy doing something either take her out right before you start your work and then either put her in a crate or put her on her leash and tie it to your belt so you can keep an eye on her.

     I know you are really frustrated, but hang in there.  It gets better!  Now Cubbie will sit down in front of us and make a little growly sound and wave his paw at us to go out (it is pretty funny).  if the problems keep up, you might want to mention it to your vet.  At 6 months of age, she should be able to hold it for several hours.

[Cathy Lentz]

Thank you for your suggestions! She does hold it for a several hours, I guess I just figured she would be asking to go out by now. Have tried the treats after she does her business and she seems to be doing a little better. Still had a few accidents this week but fewer.