Free Tips for Potty Training Adult Dogs

In this Omaha dog training session, we focused on tips for potty training adult dogs and shared helpful tricks for a trio of rescue dogs: Stella (right, a 2-year-old St. Bernard mix), Remy (center, a 1-year-old Great Pyrenees mix), and Bailey (left, a 1-year-old Boxer mix).

Our goal was to help them listen to and respect one of their guardians more effectively.

How to Help Dogs Listen to Their Guardians

I was a bit concerned at the start of the session. As a dog behaviorist, I often start my sessions by discussing common mistakes people make. These mistakes can confuse their dogs or make problems worse.

When I started asking questions about these issues, the dog’s guardian initially responded by sharing her perspective, highlighting how her situation might be different or unique. However, it was clear that she was reflecting on the situation as we talked.

She recognized her role in the circumstances and, to her credit, became more receptive to my advice. Rather than focusing on the differences, she seemed open to considering the guidance with a more positive and collaborative mindset. This shift made the conversation more constructive, allowing us to explore solutions together.

A lack of exercise is a big contributing factor with these dog’s behavior problems. All of them needed more, especially Bailey. I shared some creative ways to exercise the dogs more efficiently as the guardians have very busy schedules.

If they give the dogs 3-6 short exercise sessions throughout the day, they may see improvements. When the dogs misbehave, like barking or jumping up, this can help. Over time, the dogs should respond better and show unwanted behaviors less often.

Tricks to Potty Training Adult Dogs

One of the other problems was the dogs were peeing in the house. It’s not common for dogs of this age to have potty training problems, but it certainly happens. I handed my phone to one of the guardians so I could share some dog potty training tips that should help.

As you can see in the video above, when it comes to potty training adult dogs it’s important to focus on positive reinforcement and consistency. Avoid punishing dogs for accidents, such as rubbing their noses in it or getting angry, as this can make potty training more difficult. Instead, establish a clear command word like “business” to use when the dog goes outside to potty.

Take the dog out at key times—after waking up, eating, or playing—giving them a five-minute window to relieve themselves. If they don’t go, bring them back inside for a short break and then try again. Reward them immediately with high-value treats when they do their business outside.

Consistency is key: by repeating this process over several days, dogs will begin to associate going outside with positive rewards. Also, changing their schedule can help.

For example, adding water to their food can encourage a potty break. This can speed up the process. It’s also helpful to make sure the dog earns attention and affection, as over-petting can reduce motivation to listen.

Finally, if the dog enjoys walks, consider extending the walk a bit after pottying to reinforce the idea that pottying doesn’t mean the end of fun.

It’s not fun to take dogs out for every bathroom break. However, if their owners do this and reward them with a new command word for a week or two, the dogs will understand. That said, failure to do so consistently for a week or two will get spotty results.

Stopping a dog from having accidents in the house is not hard. You just need to spend time on it for a week or two. The being consistent is the hard part for most people.

There were a ton of other dog behavior tips I shared in this in-home dog training session. We recorded a roadmap to success video at the end of the session so the guardians can go back and watch it any time they need a refresher.