How To Potty Train A Stubborn Small Dog Without Constant Accidents

Potty training a small dog can be one of the most frustrating challenges new pet owners face—especially when the dog seems resistant or “stubborn.” Unlike larger breeds that may outgrow indoor accidents quickly, small dogs often develop persistent habits that are hard to break. However, with the right approach, even the most reluctant pup can learn proper bathroom behavior. The key lies not in punishment or force, but in consistency, timing, and understanding your dog’s instincts.

Many people assume small dogs are harder to train because they’re “spoiled” or naturally more difficult. In reality, their size works against them: they can relieve themselves in hidden corners, their accidents are less noticeable at first, and owners may unintentionally reinforce bad habits by delaying outdoor trips. This guide breaks down a practical, science-backed method to successfully potty train a stubborn small dog—without yelling, guilt, or endless cleanup.

Understanding Why Small Dogs Struggle with Potty Training

Small dogs aren’t inherently more difficult to train, but several factors contribute to prolonged potty training timelines:

• Lower bladder capacity: Tiny breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers simply can’t hold it as long as larger dogs.
• Delayed outdoor access: Owners may wait too long to take them out, leading to indoor accidents.
• Misinterpreted signals: Subtle cues (sniffing, circling) are easy to miss in busy households.
• Inconsistent routines: Irregular feeding and walking schedules confuse dogs about when and where to go.
• Accidental reinforcement: Cleaning up quietly instead of correcting the moment after an accident teaches the dog that indoors is acceptable.

Recognizing these underlying issues is the first step toward change. A “stubborn” dog is usually just a confused one acting on instinct.

Tip: Watch for early signs like sniffing, pacing, or sudden stillness—they often precede accidents by seconds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Successful Potty Training

Success doesn’t come overnight, but following a structured routine dramatically increases your chances. Use this 7-day foundational plan to reset your dog’s expectations and build good habits.

1. Establish a strict schedule: Feed, water, and take your dog outside at the same times every day. Most small dogs need to eliminate within 15–30 minutes after eating or drinking.
2. Choose a designated potty spot: Pick one area outside and always bring your dog there. Scent cues help reinforce the idea that this is the place to go.
3. Use a consistent command word: Say “Go potty” or “Do your business” each time you’re waiting outside. Over time, your dog will associate the phrase with the action.
4. Wait patiently—and reward immediately: Stay outside until your dog goes. When they do, praise enthusiastically and offer a treat within 3 seconds.
5. Supervise constantly indoors: Keep your dog in sight at all times during training. If you can’t watch them, use a crate or exercise pen.
6. Respond correctly to accidents: If you catch your dog in the act, interrupt with a firm “Ah-ah!” and carry them outside. Never punish after the fact.
7. Gradually increase freedom: Only allow access to new rooms once your dog has gone 7+ days without accidents in current areas.

This process typically takes 2–6 weeks for full reliability, though setbacks are normal. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

Common Mistakes That Sabotage Potty Training

Even well-meaning owners unknowingly undermine their efforts. Avoid these pitfalls:

Mistake	Why It’s Harmful	Better Alternative
Using pee pads indefinitely	Teaches dog it’s okay to go inside; creates confusion when trying to transition outdoors	Use pads only as a temporary tool during bad weather or emergencies
Yelling or rubbing nose in mess	Causes fear and anxiety; dog won’t connect punishment with accident	Clean thoroughly with enzyme cleaner and increase supervision
Inconsistent schedule	Dog can’t predict when to expect outdoor breaks	Stick to fixed meal and potty times daily
Letting dog roam free too soon	Increases opportunity for unsupervised accidents	Use baby gates or crates to limit access until fully trained
Not cleaning properly	Residual odor attracts dog back to same spot	Use enzymatic cleaner, never ammonia-based products

Expert Insight: What Trainers Say About Stubborn Cases

Professional dog trainers emphasize that so-called “stubborn” behaviors are rarely defiance—they’re usually communication gaps.

“Small dogs are punished less often for indoor elimination because their messes seem minor. But that sends a clear message: it’s acceptable. Consistency is the antidote.” — Dr. Karen Becker, Veterinary Behaviorist

Another common issue is incomplete housebreaking due to early weaning or poor breeder practices. Many small dogs arrive in homes without ever being taught where to go. This isn’t rebellion—it’s a lack of education.

Trainers recommend treating potty training like teaching any other skill: with repetition, clarity, and positive reinforcement. One effective technique is tethering the dog to you with a leash indoors during training. This ensures you never miss subtle cues and strengthens the bond between owner and pet.

Real-Life Example: Bella the Boston Terrier

Bella, a 10-month-old Boston Terrier, had been having accidents in her owner’s apartment for months. Despite multiple attempts with bells, pads, and verbal corrections, she continued peeing behind furniture and under tables. Her owner, frustrated, considered surrendering her.

A trainer assessed the situation and found three core issues: Bella was fed randomly throughout the day, allowed to roam freely while her owner worked from home, and only taken out when she barked—often too late.

The solution:

• Fixed feeding at 7 AM and 5 PM
• Tethered to owner during waking hours
• Took outside every 45 minutes initially, then extended as success grew
• Used high-value treats (tiny pieces of chicken) only after outdoor elimination

Within 10 days, accidents dropped from 5–6 per day to zero. By week four, Bella was signaling her needs by standing by the door. The turning point wasn’t a new trick—it was structure.

Essential Checklist for Potty Training Success

Follow this checklist daily to stay on track:

• ✅ Feed at consistent times (morning and evening)
• ✅ Take dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, before bed, and every 2–3 hours in between
• ✅ Use the same door and outdoor spot each time
• ✅ Use a verbal cue like “Go potty” while they’re eliminating
• ✅ Reward with praise and treat immediately after they finish
• ✅ Supervise or confine when not actively training
• ✅ Clean accidents with enzymatic cleaner (not vinegar or bleach)
• ✅ Track progress in a notebook or app (note times of successful outdoor eliminations)
• ✅ Gradually reduce frequency of trips as reliability improves
• ✅ Stay patient—even one accident can set back progress, but consistency rebuilds trust

Tip: If your dog consistently refuses to go outside, try changing the surface (grass vs. concrete) or time of day—some dogs prefer cooler mornings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to potty train a stubborn small dog?

Most small dogs show improvement within 2–3 weeks of consistent training. Full reliability may take 4–8 weeks. Some dogs with prior bad habits or anxiety may require up to 12 weeks. Patience and routine are critical.

Should I use pee pads or go straight to outdoor training?

If your goal is outdoor-only elimination, avoid pee pads—they create mixed messages. If you live in a high-rise or have mobility issues, pads can be part of a long-term solution, but train specifically for pad use, not both pads and outside.

My dog goes outside sometimes but still has indoor accidents. What am I doing wrong?

This usually means your dog hasn’t fully connected the dots. Possible causes include insufficient supervision, incomplete cleanup of previous accidents, or being let out too infrequently. Revert to stricter confinement and tighter scheduling for 5–7 days to reset the pattern.

Conclusion: Consistency Is the Real Key

Potty training a stubborn small dog isn’t about dominance or discipline—it’s about communication. Your dog wants to please you but needs clear, repeated guidance on what’s expected. Accidents aren’t failures; they’re feedback. Each mistake reveals a gap in routine, timing, or supervision that you can fix.

By applying structured scheduling, vigilant observation, and immediate positive reinforcement, even the most resistant small dogs can become reliably housebroken. There’s no magic trick, no secret product—just steady effort over time. Thousands of owners have turned around seemingly hopeless cases simply by committing to consistency for 30 days.

💬 Have a stubborn small dog? Start today: pick a wake-up time, set your first potty alarm, and stick to it for seven days. Share your progress or questions in the comments—your journey could inspire another owner facing the same struggle.