House Training Your Cartwright Puppy
Building Good Habits from Day One
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—but for many families, house training can feel a bit overwhelming. After all, no one wants potty accidents around the house! But don’t worry—this process doesn’t have to be stressful or frustrating. With a little commitment, patience, and consistency, you’ll be setting your puppy (and yourself) up for success.
What to Expect
House training isn’t an overnight process. Every puppy learns at a different pace, and that’s okay. The good news? If your puppy is a Cartwright Poodle, you’re already a step ahead—because we begin introducing early potty routines before our puppies ever leave for their forever homes!
We believe 8 weeks is the ideal age for a puppy to join their new family—but please keep in mind:
💡 At 8 weeks, your puppy is not yet fully potty trained. That part of the journey will continue with you.
🕒 When to Start House Training
Most puppies begin to gain bladder control between 12 to 16 weeks old. That’s when you’ll start to see real progress. From 8 to 12 weeks, your main focus should be crate training, supervision, and establishing a reliable routine.
📅 Establishing a Routine
Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their den. This natural instinct, passed down from their mothers, is what crate and schedule training builds upon.
Here’s how to help:
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Feed on a consistent schedule and remove food between meals.
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Take your puppy out after meals, naps, crate time, and playtime.
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Use the same potty spot each time—familiar scents will reinforce good habits.
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Watch for signs they need to go: sniffing, circling, whining, pacing, barking, or suddenly leaving the room.
🐶 A general rule: A puppy can hold it for half their age in weeks (in hours).
Example: An 8-week-old pup can typically wait 4 hours.
🔄 Best Times to Take Your Puppy Outside
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First thing in the morning
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After eating
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After naps
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After crate time
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After play sessions
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Right before leaving the house
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Immediately after returning home
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Before bedtime
The more consistent you are, the faster your puppy will catch on!
🧺 Using a Crate for House Training
Crates are a valuable tool—not punishment. They give your puppy a safe space and teach them to “hold it” until they’re taken out. A few key guidelines:
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The crate should be just big enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down.
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Too much space allows accidents.
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Do not leave your puppy crated too long—young puppies can't hold it for extended periods.
💡 Tips for Success
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Praise or reward your puppy after successful potty trips.
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Keep your energy calm—your attitude influences your puppy’s focus.
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Avoid using high-pitched voices during potty time (it distracts them).
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Encourage regular exercise, which helps with digestion and routine.
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If you prefer a specific potty area, use puppy pads or ammonia spray to attract your puppy to that spot.
😬 What to Do When Accidents Happen
Accidents are normal—your puppy is learning!
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If you didn’t see it happen: Clean it and move on. Do not scold or rub their nose in it.
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If you catch them in the act: Gently interrupt (“Ah-ah!”), then immediately take them outside.
Punishment will only confuse or scare your puppy. Keep the experience positive and consistent.
🧽 Tip: Use enzyme cleaners to thoroughly remove scent and discourage repeat accidents.
🎉 Final Thoughts
The key to house training is not perfection—it’s progress. With consistency, structure, and gentle guidance, your puppy will learn what’s expected. Before long, house training will be a thing of the past—and you'll have built a strong foundation for trust and good behavior in your home.
Welcome to the Cartwright Family. We’re here to support you every step of the way! 🐾