When learning how to potty train a dog you must first realize that you have to be prepared to continue training your pet all the way through. You need to be committed. Also, you should have a leash and a designated area for going to the bathroom. It should only take about two weeks to have a routine established but if you are training a dog that already has bad habits it could take up to five or six weeks.
Make sure your puppy is completely healthy because urinary tract infections and parasites can prevent you from being able to house train your dog. The area that you choose should be outside and it doesn't have to be somewhere too specific but it can be if you wish. When potty training a dog, your attitude and presence is perhaps the most important factor. You must be assertive and dominant. YOU are the leader of the pack, remember dogs are pack animals like wolves and they need a leader to follow. If you become that leader, they will constantly want your acceptance. Let your dog know when he/she does something wrong. Do not hit your dog! You can not be the source of pain, you just need to let him know you're unhappy with him/her.
And the opposite side of the coin is also important. When your dog does the right thing and shows that he/she wants to please you, give it praise. Potty training is a great foundation for the rest of the training your dog will undergo in the future.
