🚽 Potty Training Setbacks: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

 

🚽 Potty Training Setbacks: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

 

Potty training a puppy (or even a newly adopted adult dog) can feel like two steps forward, one soggy step back. Just when you think they’ve mastered it — boom — there’s a puddle by the door.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Potty training setbacks are common, and in most cases, totally normal. But how do you know when it’s just a temporary hiccup… or a bigger red flag?

Let’s break it down: what’s typical, what’s not, and what to do about it.

 

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🐾 What’s

Normal

in Potty Training?

 

Even the best-behaved pups have accidents. Here’s what’s generally normal:

 

✅ 1.

Accidents During Transitions

 

Moving homes, schedule changes, new people — any disruption can throw a dog off their potty game. Give them time to readjust and go back to basics if needed.

 

✅ 2.

Regression During Growth Spurts

 

Puppies go through phases where everything they knew temporarily goes out the window. It’s called a developmental regression, and it passes with consistency.

 

✅ 3.

Excitement or Submission Peeing

 

Some dogs pee a little when greeting people, especially puppies. This isn’t a housebreaking problem — it’s an emotional one they often outgrow.

 

✅ 4.

Too Much Freedom Too Soon

 

If your dog suddenly has full run of the house and accidents start happening, they might not be ready. Scale back and supervise.

 

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🚩 What’s

Not

Normal (and Might Need Attention)

 

If accidents persist or suddenly worsen without clear cause, it’s time to investigate:

 

❌ 1.

Sudden Onset in a Previously Trained Dog

 

Rule out medical causes first:

 

• Urinary tract infections

• Bladder stones

• Incontinence (especially in older dogs)

  A quick vet visit can save weeks of frustration.

 

 

❌ 2.

Frequent Marking Inside

 

If your dog is lifting their leg inside, it’s likely scent marking. This is especially common in unneutered males but can happen in any dog. Behavior training, and in some cases, spay/neuter, helps resolve it.

 

❌ 3.

Constant Indoor Accidents Despite Training

 

If your dog never quite gets it, check:

 

• Are you rewarding immediately after pottying outside?

• Are you keeping a consistent schedule?

• Are you supervising or crating in between potty breaks?

 

Sometimes, what feels like a stubborn dog is really just unclear communication.

 

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💡 Tips to Get Potty Training Back on Track

 

 

• ⏰ Stick to a schedule – Feed, play, and potty at the same times each day.

• 📦 Use crates or small spaces – Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.

• 🎉 Reward like it’s a party – Praise and treat immediately when they go in the right spot.

• 👃 Enzyme cleaners only – Regular cleaners won’t remove the scent dogs can still smell.

• 🧘♂️ Stay calm – Never scold. If you catch them in the act, interrupt gently and take them outside.

 

🐕 CyberMutz Tip: For outdoor potty trips in cold or wet weather, our lightweight dog tanks or tees can help keep your pup comfy — and motivated to finish their business fast.

 

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✨ Real Talk: Setbacks Don’t Mean Failure

 

Potty training isn’t linear. There will be bumps, but with consistency, patience, and a bit of humor, every dog gets there.

If you’re feeling frustrated, remember:

✔️ You’re not alone

✔️ It’s not your fault

✔️ You’re doing great

 

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📣 Final Woof

 

Potty training setbacks are part of the journey — not the end of it. By understanding what’s normal, what’s not, and staying proactive, you’re setting your pup (and your floors) up for success.

Need gear for your potty training routine?

✅ Check out our comfy dog tanks perfect for indoor lounging or outdoor potty breaks.

✅ Follow us @CyberMutz for more training tips, dog mom/dad hacks, and adorable outfit inspo!

 

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