What to do if your puppy urinates and defecates everywhere?

Finding little surprises around the house is part of puppy parenthood, but that doesn’t mean it has to last. A new pup doesn’t know your rules—they’re still figuring out their own body signals, let alone where to go when nature calls. Getting frustrated won’t help; consistency will.

Start by keeping a strict schedule. Puppies need to relieve themselves right after eating, napping, or playing—set a timer if you have to. Take them out the same door each time, to the same spot in the yard or designated area. The familiar smells will cue them that this is the right place. Some cities require cleaning up after your dog in public spaces, so keep biodegradable bags handy—fines for leaving waste can add up fast.

Watch for signs they need to go: sniffing the floor, circling, or sudden restlessness. When you catch those cues, scoop them up (calmly) and head outside. Once they do their business, praise them like it’s the best thing you’ve ever seen—excited voices and a tiny treat work wonders. Positive reinforcement sticks better than scolding, which can make them scared to go in front of you at all.

Accidents happen, even with the best plans. If you find a mess after the fact, don’t rub their nose in it—that’s outdated advice and just confuses them. Clean it thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove all traces of odor; dogs are drawn back to spots that still smell like their waste. Avoid ammonia-based products—they smell like urine to dogs, making the area more tempting, not less.

Crate training can be a game-changer, but use it kindly. A crate should be a safe space, not punishment. Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a properly sized crate (just big enough to stand and turn around) helps them hold it longer. Never leave them crated for hours on end—young pups can’t hold it that long, and forcing them might lead to more accidents later.

Remember, breed matters. Smaller puppies have tiny bladders and need more frequent breaks than larger breeds. A Chihuahua pup might need to go every 30 minutes, while a Labrador might last an hour. Check local laws too—some areas require dogs over a certain age to be house-trained, and repeated issues could raise concerns with animal welfare authorities.

Most puppies get the hang of it by 6 months, but progress isn’t always linear. There will be setbacks, like after a vet visit or a change in routine. Stay patient, stick to the schedule, and keep rewarding the good behavior. Before you know it, those unexpected messes will turn into proud moments when they run to the door, telling you they need to go out—your cue to celebrate.