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My puppy uses training pads sometimes, but still has accidents. Help!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 8 days old | 15 lbs

Not anything Health wise but I was referred to this app for tips from pet experts. Any idea on how to train my puppy to use the training pads ? He uses it one time and then continues to use it on the floor and else where. When he uses it on the puppy pad I praise him and give him a treat but he still uses it elsewhere. When he does it else where I tell him No and pick him up and show him to the puppy pad but he still uses it elsewhere. Any ideas ? Someone told me to try puppy training spray?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Maria DVM

Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2018

I would recommend against puppy training pads. Sometimes when you train them on puppy training pads as they age then still urinate in the house on paper when you want them to go outside. If you plan on taking Raven outside to go to the bathroom I would recommend starting to do it now. Raven is so very young that he will not be trained for a few months. Don't stress, it will happen.

I would recommend crate training:

Many people state that crate training is cruel but a crate is a safe haven for your puppy and many dogs use it as a place to rest and recovery after a long day. This method is extremely effective when house training and helps when you cannot watch Raven.

You must choose a crate that Raven can stand up, sit down and turn around. Getting a crate bigger then this can lead Raven to urinate or defecate on one side of the crate while sleeping on the other side.

A crate should only create a positive environment. Never use the crate for punishment. Despite what many people think do not line the crate with blankets or beds. The reason is Raven can urinate on the blankets and beds which can soak up the urine and he can bury the stool.

Keeping Raven in the crate when you cannot keep 100% eye on him is important. Every time you take him out of the crate take him on a walk to make sure they go to the bathroom and give positive reinforcement if he does. If they do not eliminate while you are outside or on the puppy pad then put Raven back in the crate for another 20minutes. After 20 minutes take him out once again to try. If Raven does go to the bathroom make sure you take time to play with him and when you have to turn your back again put them back in the crate.

If you catch him having an accident in the house tell Raven no and then take him outside or to the puppy pad and praise him if he goes. If you just find the accident, clean it up and don't say anything.

I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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