Re-Housetraining an Adult Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, adult dogs need a refresher on housetraining, whether they’re new to your home, have had a change in environment, or simply never learned consistent potty habits. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to successfully re-housetraining your dog. Here’s how to help them succeed!

🏡 Step 1: Establish a Routine
✔ Set Regular Potty Breaks – Take your dog outside first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bed. The more predictable their schedule, the faster they will learn.
✔ Use the Same Potty Spot – Bringing your dog to the same outdoor area helps them associate it with bathroom time. The scent will encourage them to go.
✔ Reward Immediately – The moment your dog finishes their business outside, praise them and offer a treat or positive reinforcement to reinforce the habit.

🐶 Step 2: Supervision & Management
✔ Keep a Close Eye – Until your dog is reliably housetrained, watch them closely indoors. If you see signs like circling, sniffing, or whining, take them outside immediately.
✔ Use a Crate or Confined Space – When you can’t supervise, a crate or small gated area can prevent accidents. Most dogs won’t eliminate where they sleep, helping reinforce the habit of holding it until they’re outside.
✔ Keep a Potty Journal – If accidents happen often, track their schedule to identify patterns and adjust potty breaks accordingly.

🛑 Step 3: Handling Accidents Properly
✔ Stay Calm & Clean Thoroughly – Accidents happen! Never punish your dog, as it can create fear and confusion. Instead, clean up messes thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove lingering odors.
✔ Interrupt, Don’t Scold – If you catch your dog in the act, calmly interrupt them with a gentle "Oops! Outside!" and guide them to their designated potty spot. Praise them if they finish outdoors.
✔ Adjust the Schedule – If accidents are frequent, take your dog out more often and ensure they’re going potty before coming back inside.

🚀 Step 4: Reinforcing Long-Term Success
✔ Be Patient & Consistent – Housetraining takes time, especially for dogs who may have had previous bad habits or inconsistent training. Stick to the routine, reward successes, and stay positive.
✔ Watch for Medical Issues – If your dog suddenly starts having frequent accidents after being housetrained, schedule a vet check-up to rule out medical conditions like UTIs or digestive issues.
✔ Gradually Increase Freedom – As your dog proves they can hold it and go outside reliably, you can start giving them more freedom around the house without constant supervision.

💙 A Fresh Start for Your Pup
Re-housetraining an adult dog takes time, love, and consistency, but with the right approach, your pup will learn (or relearn) the right habits. By setting clear expectations and rewarding success, you’ll help them feel confident and comfortable in their forever home.

🐶 Every dog deserves a second chance—start their journey to success today!