Establish a Routine

Putting a predictable routine into place is good for you and your puppy. Puppies have to go to the bathroom a lot when they're little, so it's best to take your dog out once every 2 hours or even more frequently. Based on the breed and your vet's advice, determine how often your dog needs to go outside and make a routine that you follow strictly. You can even write down the routine and post it on your fridge so that you don't forget it!

The reason it's so important to have a routine is because you are busy, and your dog needs consistency to learn. If you know you have a work from home meeting every day at 11 AM or a workout class at 2 PM, you need to plan accordingly and arrange your dog's potty schedule around your own commitments. It's best to do this as early in your dog's life as possible, because they need to get used to their new routine, too!

Pick up Puppies in Hallways and Elevators

When your puppy is on their way to go to the bathroom, don't trust them to walk on their own just yet. Little puppies have a tendency to have accidents on their trips down to the bathroom, so to avoid this, try to carry your pup as much as possible on your way to your apartment's green space outside. It's always better to be safe, rather than sorry.

Always Give Positive Reinforcement

Just as you would if you were training your puppy in a single-family home, it's crucial to praise your puppy for their efforts when you're potty training them in an apartment. As you get to know your new friend, you'll figure out whether they're food motivated, toy motivated, or people motivated. Depending on your puppy's wants, praise them accordingly. If they love food, give them a treat after they've gone to the bathroom outside. If they love toys, give them their favorite one after they've gone to the bathroom outside. And if they love being pet, pet them after they've gone to the bathroom outside.

Have Plenty of Cleaning Supplies on Hand

In the case that your pup does have an accident in your apartment, you need to be prepared with the proper cleaning supplies. It's always a good idea to have paper towels and disinfectants on hand. If you're prepared with the proper cleaning supplies, you'll be able to clean up your dog's accidents safely. Cleanliness matters, especially when you're living in an apartment.

Look for Warning Signs

Avoiding an accident sometimes takes more than simply following your routine. Although your dog is less likely to have an accident when you follow your "potty schedule," sometimes young puppies have to go to the bathroom at unexpected times. If you notice that your dog is sniffing, whining, or doing something else that signals they have to go to the bathroom, take them outside immediately.

Figure Out Your Apartment's Rules

No one wants your dog to have an accident in the house, but sometimes, as we just mentioned, they do happen. Before you bring a new puppy into your apartment, it's good practice to ask your landlord whether or not there are any rules you have to follow with a puppy. You don't want your dog to have an accident and violate your apartment complex's rules.

At 21 South at Parkview, for example, pets are not allowed in apartments with new carpets. If there are any rules like these at your new home, you need to be aware of them. Once you understand any rules you and your puppy must follow, you'll have a better idea as to where your dog can roam in the house.

Start Potty Training Your Pup at 21 South at Parkview

You and your new puppy deserve to settle into your new home. At 21 South at Parkview, we welcome dog owners and their furry friends. With these tips, you're ready to potty train your pup from your new pet-friendly apartment! For more information about our apartments and living in Baton Rouge, contact us.