Why I Have Accidents Indoors (and How I'm Learning)

Love, your puppy 🐾

Hello my favourite human! 👋
It’s me again — your puppy — here to talk about something a little... embarrassing:
Why I sometimes have accidents in the house. (I really don’t mean to!)

I promise I'm trying my very best.
Let me explain what's happening inside my little body, how you can help me, and how together we'll make potty training a success!

Why I Have Little Accidents 🚽

Here’s the honest truth: my bladder is tiny, and I don't have full control over it yet.

At my age:

• I physically can’t "hold it" for very long.

• Sometimes, I only realise I need to go the moment it’s happening.

• Excitement, fear, and playtime can make it even harder for me to remember.

It’s not because I'm lazy or stubborn — it’s simply because I'm growing and learning, just like you did once!

How My Bladder Develops 🐾

Here’s a rough guide to what you can expect:

⏰ Top Tip:
A good rule of thumb is 1 hour for every month of age — but every puppy is different!

How You Can Help Me Succeed 🏆

You’re my teacher and biggest cheerleader. Here’s how we can team up:

1. Set a Regular Toilet Routine 🚶♂️

Take me outside:

• First thing in the morning

• After meals

• After naps

• After playtime

• Before bed

And remember — sometimes, just because I went 20 minutes ago doesn't mean I don't need to go again after a big zoomie session!

🐾 Consistency is magic.
The more often you take me out, the fewer chances I have to make mistakes.

2. Celebrate Every Success 🎉

When I go potty outside, make it a BIG DEAL!

• Praise me warmly ("Good puppy! Yay!")

• Offer me a tasty tiny treat right after I finish.

• Give me lots of happy attention.

🌟 Positive reinforcement helps me learn:

“Toilet outside = happy human + treats = I want to do that again!”

3. Watch for My Signals 👀

I might not bark or whine yet.
Here are signs I might need to go:

• Sniffing and circling

• Whining quietly

• Wandering away from you

• Looking restless or distracted

If you spot these signals, whisk me outside quickly!

4. Stay Calm About Mistakes 🧹

If I do have an accident indoors:

• Don’t shout at me — I’ll just get confused and scared.

• Gently clean it up with pet-safe cleaner (it removes smells properly).

• Move on and keep practising!

🔑 Patience is key.
I'm trying so hard, and your calm support makes all the difference.

5. Use a Safe "Puppy Zone" 🏡

When you can’t watch me closely (like when you're cooking or answering the door), set up a safe space with:

• Puppy pads (if you want)

• My toys

• My bed

This helps me learn where it’s okay to go, and prevents bad habits from starting.

A Little Note About Night-Time 🌙

At first, I might need a toilet trip once or twice during the night.
Setting a gentle alarm or keeping me nearby so you can hear me stir will help.

Good news:
Most puppies can sleep through the night (around 6–8 hours) by 4–6 months old.
Hang in there — we’re getting there together!

Final Thoughts From Your Growing Puppy 🐶

I love learning with you.
Every little success we have makes me feel more confident, proud, and connected to you.

Thank you for:

• Being patient

• Celebrating my wins

• Understanding that accidents are just part of growing up

With your help, I’ll soon be a toilet-trained superstar — and I’ll always remember that you helped me every step of the way.

Big cuddles and happy tail wags,
Your puppy 🐾

About the Author
I’m Katy Peck, with years of hands-on experience and a passion for kind, natural training, I created TEDDY Talks to help families and their dogs understand each other better — one gentle “why?” at a time.