Whether you are about to adopt a puppy or have already welcomed your new companion into your home, you should ask yourself a multitude of questions. And one of the most important of these: how often do puppies relieve themselves? Because, even if you are delighted to have taken the plunge, you know full well that for several weeks – until your hairball has become clean – you will have to deal with its pressing desires. Here are some things you need to know to manage the situation!
A puppy pees (very) often
You may have noticed that with regard to your sofa or your carpet, puppies very often need to relieve themselves. It is also strongly advised not to lock a puppy in a crate or in an enclosure at night because he will not be able to hold himself back and will be forced to sleep in his pee. Not exactly pleasant, is it? If you do not want to get up to take him out (which is understandable), prefer to install a kind of small litter box for him using newspaper for example. This will allow your pup to have a better night’s sleep.
During the day, to avoid small accidents in the house, it will be necessary to be very present. Indeed, at 2 months a puppy can potentially defecate every hour or, if he is already well developed, every two to three hours. It is up to you to observe its behavior and habits.
But the good news is that the older your pup gets, the more he is able to hold himself back. Thus, at 3 months he will relieve himself every three to four hours. And at 4 months it will be every four to five hours. Something to breathe a little!
The crucial moments not to miss during the day
Even though puppies need to relieve themselves throughout the day (and night), there are still strategic times when it is absolutely necessary to take them out. Thus, after each meal or each drink and after each nap, puppies tend to relieve themselves so this is when you have to be reactive and take them out.
Be aware that there are a few signs that may indicate that it is time to take your puppy out. He may start moaning, desperately trying to hold himself back, scratching at the door or even being particularly agitated when heading for the front door.
And rest assured, a puppy achieves full bladder control between 4 and 6 months. So there is light at the end of the tunnel, it is only a bad phase to go through! To learn more about the fastest way to potty train a puppy, do not hesitate to read our article on the subject.
Good to know: if your puppy relieves himself on your belongings or on the floor of your house, it is important not to scold or punish him. It’s not his fault, he’s just too small to hold back! Instead, take him out immediately to make him understand that he must relieve himself outside. And when he does run outside, remember to reward him generously every time (even for a drop) with hugs, praise, and treats if needed.
