How to Get Your Dog to Potty Faster: Stop the Stalling!
Does your dog take forever to go potty when you take them outside? Whether you’re running late, battling cold or rainy weather, or living in an apartment where every potty break is an ordeal, a dog that refuses to go quickly can be frustrating.
The good news? You can fix this problem!
Why Does Your Dog Take So Long to Go Potty?
Most often, dogs delay pottying because they’ve unintentionally learned that going potty means the end of outdoor fun. If every time they go, you immediately take them inside, they may start stalling to extend their time outside.
Another common reason is distractions—especially in new or busy environments. If your dog is too busy sniffing, watching people, or exploring, they may forget why they’re outside in the first place.
How to Teach Your Dog to Potty Quickly
Follow these four steps to re-train your dog to go potty on command and stop delaying!
Step 1: Set Your Dog Up for Success
To make potty training effective, start when you know your dog needs to go:
✔ Feed your dog 20-30 minutes before going outside.
✔ Limit water intake right before potty time (especially if your dog is prone to drinking excessive amounts).
✔ Choose a consistent potty spot—a quiet, low-distraction grassy area.
By setting up the perfect scenario, you increase the likelihood that your dog will go quickly.
Step 2: Make Potty Time Boring
Dogs love fun and excitement. If they associate pottying with the end of fun, they’ll stall. Here’s how to change that:
✔ Pick a boring spot – Choose an area with few distractions.
✔ Keep them on a leash – Use a short leash (not a retractable one) to limit distractions and keep them focused.
✔ Stay quiet and still – Don’t play, talk, or walk around. Be as boring as possible.
💡 Pro Tip: The first time you try this, be prepared to wait patiently. Your dog may test whether delaying will work—but stay firm!
Step 3: Introduce a Potty Cue
Once your dog finally goes potty, start associating a command with the action:
✔ As they start to go, say “Go Potty!” or “Do Your Business!” in a calm, encouraging voice.
✔ Repeat the phrase as they’re going to reinforce the association.
✔ Over time, your dog will learn to potty on command.
Step 4: Reward & Make It Fun!
The moment your dog finishes pottying, throw a party! 🎉
✔ Use high-value treats – Something extra special like chicken, cheese, or their favorite snack.
✔ Give lots of verbal praise – “Good potty!!” in an excited, happy tone.
✔ Offer a toy or extra playtime as an added reward.
💡 Super Important: After rewarding your dog, DON’T go straight inside! Instead, go for a short walk or do something fun. This teaches your dog that potty time doesn’t mean the fun is over—and they’ll start pottying faster to get to the fun part!
Stay Consistent & Avoid Old Habits
Once your dog starts pottying faster, stick to the plan! Make sure potty time remains the “boring job” that happens first, before fun begins.
🚀 Ready to Transform Your Dog’s Behavior?
At Cosmic Canine, we offer expert training programs to help solve potty training issues, obedience challenges, and more.
✔ Free Consultation – Not sure what training is right for your dog?
✔ Professional Trainers – Customized solutions for your dog’s needs.
✔ Proven Methods – Fast, effective, and positive training techniques.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation! 🚀🐾
