Training sheet: House-training

👀Stage 1: Anticipate and read the signals▼

Spot the early signs

Watch your puppy closely: he may circle, sniff the ground intently, head for a quiet corner or start to squat.

A regular outing routine

Don't wait for him to ask. Take him out as soon as he wakes up, after he has eaten or drunk, after play, and every 45 to 60 minutes the rest of the time.

Keep it simple

Go outside with him. As soon as he starts, introduce a quiet cue word (“Do your business”). When he finishes: instant jackpot! Happy voice, a stroke and a top-quality treat.

⚡Stage 2: Interrupt him in the act▼

⚠️

Only if you catch him IN THE ACT. Otherwise, go straight to stage 3.

A gentle interruption

At the exact moment, make a small neutral sound (an “oops!” or a short syllable) in a calm voice, just to interrupt the act, without scolding or frightening him.

Move him straight outside

Pick him up straight away (lift him gently under the belly) and carry him quickly outside.

Reward outside

Put him down. If he finishes outside: massive jackpot! It is the contrast (interrupted indoors, celebration outdoors) that makes it click.

🧹Stage 3: Dealing with an accident you find afterwards▼

The 15-second rule

If you find the accident more than 15 seconds later, any scolding or punishment is completely pointless. Your dog will no longer make the connection.

No reaction

Ignore both the accident and the dog. Don't sigh, don't look at him.

Clean up the smart way

Use a mix of 50% white vinegar and 50% sparkling water. Avoid bleach, which encourages the dog to go in the same spot again.

💡

If your dog treats the cleaning as a game (grabs the mop, jumps about), clean up out of his sight.

💡Key points▼

Don't overdo it: a calm interruption is enough. Never rub his nose in it (pointless and counter-productive). Don't shout: it causes “submissive wees” and makes your dog lose trust.
Flip the focus: You are the one who anticipates. If an accident happens, it is often because the human missed a signal.
If he goes backwards: Return to very frequent outings (every 45 minutes) for 48 hours to reset good habits.