The Best Way to Potty Train a Puppy: A Simple 7-Day Plan

Bringing home a new puppy is pure joy—until you step in a puddle. Potty training is one of the most important early lessons for your pup, and with the right plan (and a bit of patience), you can help them learn fast.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simple 7-day potty training plan to get your pup on track, along with helpful tips and product suggestions to make the process smoother—for both of you.

🐶 Before You Begin: Set Yourself Up for Success

A successful potty training journey starts with the right tools and mindset. Here's what you need:

• A designated potty spot (indoors or outdoors)

• Puppy pee pads or washable dog diapers (like Bella & Pal’s ultra-absorbent, comfortable designs)

• A crate or playpen for rest and quiet time

• Training treats

• A consistent feeding and potty schedule

• LOTS of patience and praise

The 7-Day Potty Training Plan

Day 1: Introduction & Observation

Get to know your puppy’s rhythm. Take them to their potty spot:

• First thing in the morning

• After meals or drinking

• After naps or playtime

• Before bedtime

Every successful potty trip? Praise like crazy and reward with a treat. Start to use a phrase like “Go potty” to build the association.

📝 Tip: Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or squatting—these usually mean they’re about to go!

Day 2: Establish a Routine

Dogs love structure. Begin feeding at the same time each day and take your puppy to potty every 1–2 hours, even if they don’t ask.

Set an alarm if needed—puppies don’t come with built-in clocks!

Day 3: Introduce Crate Time

Crates are not punishments—they’re your best potty training ally. Dogs naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Let your puppy nap or rest in their crate between potty trips.

✔️ Make sure the crate is just the right size—not too roomy, or accidents may happen.

Day 4: Track Progress

Keep a simple log: when your pup eats, sleeps, pees, or poops. This helps you recognize patterns—maybe they always go 15 minutes after eating, or right after waking.

This info = your custom potty schedule.

Day 5: Accidents Happen—Stay Calm

If your puppy has an accident indoors, clean it up thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner and move on. Never punish. Redirect and guide them to the correct spot.

If you catch them mid-accident: a calm “No” and move them to the potty area.

💡 Consider washable dog diapers for backup if you're in an apartment, during travel, or can’t supervise closely.

Day 6: Celebrate Wins

Is your puppy starting to go on their own? That’s a huge milestone! Keep rewarding those good choices.

Try gradually increasing the time between potty breaks, but only if your puppy is having consistent success.

Day 7: Build Consistency

By now, you should have a better sense of your puppy’s potty timing. Stick with your schedule, keep praising, and continue using your crate during downtime.

You’ve built the foundation—now keep going!

🐾 Bonus Tips

• Use the same door and same potty spot to help your puppy make the connection.

• Watch for regression during growth spurts or changes in environment—it’s normal.

🧼 Bella & Pal Recommends:

• Washable Dog Diapers: Great for backup during training, especially at night or when you can’t supervise.

• Training Harnesses & Leashes: For quick outdoor potty trips without fuss.

🛒 Explore our potty training essentials in the Bella & Pal online store. Comfort, function, and a little peace of mind.

Potty training doesn’t have to be frustrating. With a clear plan and consistent routine, you and your pup will be accident-free in no time.

Remember—every puppy learns at their own pace. Celebrate progress, stay consistent, and lean on helpful tools when you need them.

You’ve got this. And your pup? They’ll thank you with tail wags and a whole lot of love.