Is there a place you can go and stay -- walking around is too interesting for a puppy. They want to investigate everything. Like the previous poster said, take him to the same place each time and just wait. They will have to go eventually. I would wait a max 15 minutes. If they have not pottied, go back in. When he potties inside, immediately take him back outside to "the spot" and say "potty outside." Of course, he won't be able to go again right away, but you are making a connection. Then wait about an hour from the time he piddled inside, and take him out again. Put him on the grass and say again, "potty outside" -- keep at it. Most importantly when he does go in the right spot -- PRAISE and REWARD. Have a tiny treat ready and tell him what a wonderful baby he is!
I have been doing this for weeks (with two puppies) and we are getting better but I still find accidents in the house. I cleaned the carpets again yesterday. I called a dog trainer about this with one of my other little dogs -- they were reluctant to take on the project! They said the smaller they are, the harder it is to housetrain them. They said just be consistent and patient.
One thing I forgot in there -- if the puppy just wants to play when you are taking him out for a potty time, do not play in the same area you are using for a potty place. If he just won't go and you want to stay out for awhile, take him away from the regular potty place. You want him to learn when you take him to "that spot" you want him to get down to business. Good luck to us both! |