Use these proven training ideas to help your dog control indoor accidents.
Is your dog turning your house into their personal bathroom? No worries, you’re not alone! With the right tricks (and a little patience), you can take control of the situation and keep your floors pee-free. Here are seven genius—and a little ridiculous—strategies to stop your dog from peeing indoors!
1. Stick to a Potty Schedule Like Your Life Depends on It
Dogs thrive on routine, and your sanity might depend on it too. Stick to a strict potty schedule like you’re planning a military mission. Take your dog out at the same times every day, especially after meals, playtime, and naps. Soon, your dog will understand there’s a time and place to go—and it’s not on your new carpet!
2. Throw a Potty Party Every Time They Pee Outside
No one’s too old for a party, especially your dog. When they pee outside, throw a mini celebration—treats, belly rubs, and lots of “good dog” praise! It’ll make them think peeing outside is the greatest thing ever, and who doesn’t want to be the life of the (potty) party?
3. Block Off the “Indoor Toilet” Zones Before Your Dog Declares Them a Bathroom
If your dog has marked certain indoor spots as their personal restroom, shut it down! Use baby gates or close doors to keep them out of their favorite peeing spots. It’s like putting up “out of order” signs everywhere they like to go. Less access equals fewer accidents!
4. Read Your Dog’s Potty Dance and Rush Them Out Like a Hero
If your dog starts sniffing around, circling, or giving you those “I gotta go” eyes, it’s time for action! Grab that leash and race to the yard before they have a chance to christen your floor. Knowing your dog’s “potty dance” is your secret weapon to preventing indoor accidents.
5. Clean Up Like a CSI Expert, or Risk a Repeat Offender
If your dog has an accident, you can’t just wipe it up and hope for the best. Break out the enzyme cleaner like you’re scrubbing a crime scene. Regular cleaners won’t cut it—if your dog smells the slightest hint of old pee, they’ll think it’s open season for another go.
6. Crate Them Like Royalty (Not Punishment!) for Better Potty Habits
Crate training isn’t jail time—it’s giving your dog a comfy, cozy space that doubles as a bathroom-free zone. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so use a crate to prevent accidents when you can’t supervise. Just make sure it’s the right size, or they’ll turn it into a bathroom suite.
7. Get a Vet Check Before You Blame It All on Bad Behavior
Sometimes, your dog isn’t just being a rebel—there could be a medical issue at play. Frequent accidents could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or something more serious. If your dog’s suddenly peeing indoors, rule out health problems with a vet visit before jumping to conclusions.