Ask Doctor Dog: Is There Such Thing as a Dog That Can’t Be Housebroken?

Is your dog or puppy still peeing in the house? Not sure what to do? There are more reasons than one why potty training your dog isn't going according to plan.

There’s nothing like stepping in a damp spot on the carpet to brighten your day. It’s even better when it’s warm, and when you’re wearing clean socks.

All jokes aside, there are more reasons than one why potty training your dog isn’t going according to plan. Doctor Dog has an answer to one reader’s perplexing potty problem.

You can ask me any questions whenever you want. Then look for my responses in my Dear Doctor Dog advice column on Always Pets.

The Question: Can a Puppy Be Untrainable?

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Dear Doctor Dog,

My roommate got a puppy recently. He’s a 14-week-old Westie named Paxton. He’s super cute, but even though she takes him out regularly, he still has accidents often, especially on the carpet. We’re in a rental, so we need to figure out a solution ASAP. Help?!

— Rosy Becker from Fort Wayne, Indiana

Doctor Dog’s Answer: There’s No Such Thing as a Lost Cause

Unhappy puppy owner with dog who peed on the parquet floor

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Dear Rosy,

It sounds like you have a smelly situation on your hands. My first question is what do you mean by “regularly.” Puppies are much like human babies. While they mature a lot faster, they’re still basically toddlers. As a rule of thumb (or paw), puppies can “hold it” one hour for every month of age. Paxton should be able to hold it for about three hours.

If that’s already taken care of, he probably just needs a week or two of extra potty breaks to reinforce good habits. The Humane Society’s guide is a great resource for more tips.

When the inevitable accident does happen, apply an enzymatic cleaning spray to remove the smell and discourage him from returning to the same spot. With a little TLC, Paxton should be barking up the right tree in no time.

Thanks fur the great question.

— Doctor Dog

More Infurmation About Potty Training Your Puppy

Have a Question for Doctor Dog?

White golden r etriever puppy in a cage for potty training

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Leave any questions for me, and look for my responses in my Dear Doctor Dog advice column on Always Pets. Have questions about cats, bunnies, hamsters or any other critters? Shoot. I may be a dog myself, but I’m here to help all your animal companions, whether they have four legs or fins.

Important reminder: Doctor Dog is happy to provide general pet care guidance, but she cannot provide formal medical recommendations or diagnoses for your pet. Your pet’s veterinarian should always be your primary resource for serious questions regarding your pet’s health.