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POTTY TRAINING YOUR PUPPY: THE TETHERED APPROACH THAT ACTUALLY WORKS
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Potty training a puppy isn’t just about taking them outside every few hours. It’s about creating habits, managing their environment, and rewarding success at the right time. With the right tools and consistency, it doesn’t have to be a battle.
1. Keep Them Close with a Tethering Lead
One of the biggest mistakes new puppy owners make is giving too much freedom too soon. Every accident inside teaches the wrong habit. The key is prevention and supervision.
When your puppy is indoors, keep them either in a crate, a safe playpen, or attached to you with a tethering lead. This keeps them near enough to explore safely but close enough for you to catch the early signs they need to go such as sniffing, circling, or pausing.
🐺 Recommended Gear:Tactical Adventure Lead Built for exploration and training. Lightweight, adjustable, and strong for hands-free tethering or direct control.
2. Reward the Right Moments
Once your pup goes in the right spot, reward them immediately. Keep a treat pouch on you so rewards are always within reach. Instant praise and treats help your puppy connect the behaviour with success.
🐺 Recommended Gear:Tactical Reward Pouch Quick-access design keeps your hands free and rewards ready for every training moment.
3. Create a Routine
Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after naps, meals, play sessions, and before bed. For young pups, that’s about every two hours. If they don’t go, bring them inside for a short crate rest and try again. Consistency forms the habit faster than any shortcut.
Events in a 16-hour Day: Potty Breaks: 8 Crate Time: 4hrs (2 x 2hr Sessions) Play & Training Games: 2.5 hrs Tethered to Person or Furniture: 8.5 hrs (1–2 hrs walking around the house)
4. Handle Accidents Calmly
Accidents happen. When they do, stay calm. Clean up thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner so the scent doesn’t invite a repeat. Never punish or scold. Your puppy isn’t being defiant, they’re still learning.
The Right Tools Build the Right Habits
At Descendant of Wolves, we believe training is about more than obedience. It’s about trust, consistency, and building the bond between human and dog. Our Tactical Adventure Lead and Tactical Reward Pouch are designed to keep that bond strong. Practical tools built to make training easier, cleaner, and more connected.