
If your dog is regressing on potty training, it's not uncommon for them to start having accidents in the house. This can be frustrating and stressful for both you and your dog.
Some common reasons for regression include changes in your work schedule, moving to a new home, or introducing new pets or family members. These changes can disrupt your dog's routine and lead to accidents.
Dogs can also regress due to medical issues, such as urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal problems. If you suspect a medical issue, it's essential to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.
As a dog owner, it's essential to be patient and consistent when dealing with regression.
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What Causes Puppy Regression
Puppy regression on potty training is a common issue that can happen to any dog owner. It's totally normal for puppies to regress during potty training, and it's not because they're trying to be naughty.
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There are several reasons why puppies regress on potty training. Inconsistent rewards can lead to accidents, as owners may get complacent and stop watching their puppy as closely. Too long between potty breaks can also cause regression, as young pups can't hold it for long. Stress and anxiety can also trigger regression, especially if the puppy is scared of fireworks or being alone.
Here are the top 4 causes of puppy regression on potty training:
- Inconsistent rewards
- Too long between potty breaks
- Stress
- Anxiety
Illness, such as a tummy upset or UTI, can also cause regression, as puppies may need to go more frequently and quickly.
4 Causes & Solutions
Puppies can regress in potty training due to inconsistent rewards. It's easy to get complacent after a few days without accidents, but this can lead to a relapse.
Inconsistent rewards are a common cause of potty training regression. This is because puppies thrive on routine and predictability.
Too long between potty breaks is another reason for regression. Young pups can't hold it for long, so regular breaks are essential.
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Stress is a major factor in potty training regressions. Changes in environment, such as moving to a new home, can cause stress, leading to accidents.
Anxiety can also contribute to regression. Puppies can become anxious due to various factors, such as fireworks or being left alone.
Illness can cause potty training regressions. Puppies with a tummy upset or a UTI will need to go more frequently and quickly.
Here are the common causes of potty training regression:
- Inconsistent rewards
- Too long between potty breaks
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Illness
Olfactory Indicators from Other Dogs
Dogs have extremely sensitive noses and can detect even the faintest odors in large areas.
Their keen sense of smell can affect their potty training, especially if they're exposed to lingering odors from accidents.
If a new puppy has accidents in the house and the smell isn't thoroughly cleaned, the existing dog may feel inclined to eliminate in the same spot.
This is because dogs are attuned to the smell of urine and can pick up on lingering odors.
Having an enzymatic cleaner on hand can help thoroughly remove any lingering odors from accidents, making it easier to prevent puppy regression.
Why Puppies Regress
Puppies regress because we can often try to rush things along, and their potty training just isn’t completely reliable yet.
It's normal for regressions to happen, especially if you're trying to rush the process.
The reasons for regression are often due to factors like inconsistent schedules, not enough supervision, or not rewarding good behavior.
Rushing things along can undo all the progress you've made, sending you back to square one.
It's frustrating, but it's not uncommon for puppies to soil the house after you thought they were fully trained.
Inconsistent schedules can confuse your puppy and make it harder for them to learn.
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When to Expect Regression
Puppies can regress on potty training at any age, but some stages are more prone to setbacks. A 4-month-old puppy is still learning and may have accidents if you're not consistent with training.
At around 7 months, puppies often go through a challenging phase known as the "terrible teens." This is a time when they tend to stop responding to rewards, leading to potty training regressions.
If your puppy is over 10 months old, they may be experiencing hormonal changes, especially if they're a female, which can cause stress and lead to accidents.
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4 Month

At 4 months old, your puppy is likely still in the process of learning to hold their bladder and bowels. They may still have accidents if you take your eye off the ball.
Going back to basics can help prevent accidents at this age. Make sure to take your puppy to the yard and reward them when they potty outside.
It's normal for 4-month-old puppies to still have some accidents, so don't get discouraged if it happens. Just remember to be patient and consistent with their training.
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10+ Month
If you're dealing with a 10+ month puppy experiencing potty training regressions, it's likely due to their sexual maturity. This can be a stressful time for female dogs with fluctuating hormones.
A rollercoaster of hormones can cause stress in female dogs, while male dogs may feel a strong urge to mark their territory.
A potty training schedule can help get your puppy back on track. This may involve adjusting their routine to accommodate their age and development.
If you have to leave your puppy for a while, consider hiring a friend, dog walker, or pet sitter to prevent accidents inside.
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How to Handle Puppy Regression
It's totally normal for puppies to regress during potty training, and it's not because they're being stubborn or trying to drive you crazy. Mostly, it's because we can rush things along and their potty training just isn't completely reliable yet.
Changes to your routine can also cause regression, so be aware of any sudden changes you've made to your potty-training regimen. Things like less frequent toilet breaks, irregular meal times, or leaving your pet unsupervised and allowing them access to all rooms can all lead to regression.
Taking it out on your puppy won't help, and it can even cause more problems. If they feel scolded or punished, they might start to "hide" where they go, making it even harder to train them.
Here are some common causes of regression:
- Less frequent toilet breaks.
- Irregular meal times or changing food quantities.
- Leaving your pet unsupervised and allowing them access to all rooms.
Remember, housebreaking a dog is a step-by-step process, so take it slow but steady. With patience and consistency, you can get your puppy back on track and they'll be a pro at going potty outside in no time.
Understanding Puppy Regression
Puppies can regress during potty training, and it's totally normal. This can happen because their potty training isn't completely reliable yet.
Regression can be caused by rushing the training process, which can be frustrating for both you and your puppy. Their hormones can also go wild during their juvenile period, leading to marking behavior.
Marking behavior is a common reason for regression, especially in males who want to claim territory. They'll release a small amount of urine to leave a scent message, which is different from a full-blown potty accident.
You can identify marking behavior by the small amount of urine left behind. If you suspect marking, you can try deep cleaning the area with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent.
Blocking your puppy's access to the marked area can also help prevent further accidents. It's also a good idea to check with your veterinarian about the possibility of neutering your dog.
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When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog's potty regression persists or worsens, it's essential to seek professional help. If your dog is older than 12 months, it could be a sign of a medical issue.
A veterinary visit is crucial if you notice concerning signs alongside the regression. Your vet can rule out underlying medical conditions that may be causing the regression.
Some common medical conditions that cause incontinence or potty regression in dogs include urinary tract infections, inflammatory bowel syndrome, diabetes, bladder or kidney stones, food allergies, and infections. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, from painful urination to diarrhea.
Here are some key signs to look out for:
- Urinary tract infections: painful urination, frequent urination, and licking/whining at the genital area
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome: frequent diarrhea, incontinence, vomiting, and appetite changes with weight loss
- Diabetes: drinking more water than average and developing bladder incontinence
- Bladder or kidney stones: urinary accidents, blood in the urine, abdominal discomfort, and difficulty urinating
- Food allergies: irregular bowel function, diarrhea, and loss of control over eliminations
- Infections: gastrointestinal infections causing diarrhea and loss of control over eliminations
If you suspect your dog's regression is health-related, don't hesitate to seek help. Your vet will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and get your dog the help they need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 10 10 10 rule for potty training?
The 10 10 10 rule for potty training involves spending 10 minutes with your puppy in a designated area, allowing them to freely eliminate within a 10-foot radius, and supervising them for 10 minutes to ensure successful potty breaks. This simple yet effective routine helps establish good habits and a strong bond with your puppy.
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