Updated April, 2025
Bringing home a new Goldendoodle—whether a mini or standard—is an exciting, life-changing experience. Along with all the joy of welcoming a playful, loving companion into your home comes the responsibility of teaching them proper house habits. Potty training is one of the first challenges you’ll face, and while it can be demanding, it’s also incredibly rewarding. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and adaptable nature, Goldendoodles can learn quickly when given consistent, positive guidance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about potty training your Goldendoodle. We’ll cover why early training is so important, explain what to expect during the process, and provide a detailed, step-by-step plan designed to set your puppy up for success. Whether you’re starting with a tiny mini Goldendoodle or a larger standard variety, these strategies will work for you. For more about our puppies and their care, check out Rock Creek Puppies and our Nebraska Goldendoodle Facts.
Why Start Potty Training Early?
The Importance of Early Training
Potty training should begin as soon as your Goldendoodle puppy comes home. Early training is key because puppies are most receptive to forming habits during these first few weeks. Establishing good routines early on makes it much easier to maintain those habits as your puppy grows. Since Goldendoodles are known for their intelligence and ability to pick up cues, starting early sets the foundation for long-term success.
A puppy’s bladder control is still developing, which means they need frequent breaks. Beginning potty training from day one helps your new friend learn where and when it’s acceptable to eliminate. In time, this consistent practice reduces accidents and helps your puppy become a well-adjusted, house-trained member of the family.
Setting Expectations
It’s important to be patient and realistic. While Goldendoodles are quick learners, no puppy is fully potty trained overnight. On average, it takes about four to six months for a puppy to achieve consistent success, though this can vary based on the individual’s temperament, size, and your level of consistency. During this time, expect a few setbacks, but remember that every little step forward is progress.
Understanding the Potty Training Process
Successful potty training relies on consistency, routine, and positive reinforcement. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the key steps involved.
Establish a Routine
Creating a Consistent Schedule
Puppies thrive on routine. Establishing a consistent schedule for meals, playtime, and bathroom breaks is essential. When your puppy knows what to expect, they are more likely to learn the appropriate times to go outside. A typical schedule might include:
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Morning: Take your puppy out first thing in the morning.
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After Meals: Plan a potty break about 15–20 minutes after each meal.
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Regular Intervals: Every 1-2 hours when your puppy is awake, provide an opportunity to go outside.
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Before Bed: Ensure a final trip outside before bedtime.
By sticking to a routine, you help your puppy understand that outside is the designated area for eliminating waste.
Use a Crate
The Benefits of Crate Training
Crate training is an invaluable tool for potty training your Goldendoodle. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so using a crate can help reinforce bladder control. When choosing a crate:
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Size Appropriateness: Ensure the crate is large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably—but not so large that they have room to designate a “bathroom corner.”
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Crate Divider: Consider a crate with a divider so your puppy can grow into it without having too much space.
The crate should be a safe and comfortable space—never used as punishment. Add a cozy blanket or a favorite chew toy to create a positive association.
Monitor for Potty Cues
Recognizing Your Puppy’s Signals
Goldendoodles, like all puppies, give subtle signs when they need to go potty. Learning to recognize these cues is essential:
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Circling or Pacing: Your puppy might start walking in circles or pacing around.
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Sniffing the Ground: A sudden burst of sniffing near the door or floor.
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Whining or Restlessness: Vocalizing or becoming unusually restless can indicate discomfort.
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Heading Toward the Door: Your puppy might move toward the exit when they need to go out.
When you notice these behaviors, immediately take your puppy outside to reinforce that the proper place to eliminate is outdoors.
Designate a Potty Spot
Creating a Consistent Outdoor Area
Choose a specific area outside where your puppy can do their business. Consistency is key—taking your puppy to the same spot each time helps them associate that area with eliminating. Over time, your puppy will recognize the familiar smells and signals that it’s time to go.
For smaller dogs, such as mini Goldendoodles, make sure the designated spot is easily accessible and safe. Avoid frequently changing the location, as this can confuse your puppy and slow down the training process.
Set a Potty Command
Establishing a Verbal Cue
Goldendoodles are highly responsive to verbal cues. Choose a simple command—such as “Go potty,” “Do your business,” or “Time to pee”—and use it consistently every time you take your puppy outside. Over time, your puppy will begin to associate the command with the action, making it easier to direct them when it’s time for a potty break.
Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding Good Behavior
One of the most effective techniques in potty training is positive reinforcement. Each time your Goldendoodle goes outside to eliminate, offer immediate praise, affection, or a small treat. This reward system helps reinforce the behavior, making it more likely that your puppy will repeat it.
For instance, after a successful potty break, use a cheerful tone to say “Good job!” and consider giving a treat. Over time, your puppy will understand that going outside results in a positive outcome.
Bell Training for Communication
A Creative Way to Signal Needs
Bell training is a popular method among Goldendoodle owners. Hang a bell on the door you use for potty breaks and teach your puppy to ring it when they need to go outside. Here’s how:
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Introduce the Bell: Show your puppy the bell and allow them to sniff it.
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Associate the Bell with the Door: Every time you take your puppy outside, gently guide their nose or paw to ring the bell.
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Repeat Consistently: Over time, your puppy will learn to ring the bell on their own to signal that they need to go out.
This method is particularly useful for mini Goldendoodles who might have difficulty signaling their needs in other ways.
Preventing Indoor Accidents
Effective Strategies to Avoid Mishaps
Accidents are inevitable during the early stages of potty training. When accidents happen, avoid scolding your puppy. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner to eliminate odors that might attract your puppy back to the same spot.
If you notice frequent accidents in a specific area, consider restricting access using baby gates or closing doors. This prevents your puppy from repeatedly soiling the same space and encourages them to use their designated potty area.
Creating a Consistent Feeding Schedule
How Diet Influences Potty Habits
A consistent feeding schedule is crucial for regulating your puppy’s bathroom habits. Feed your puppy at the same times each day, and then plan potty breaks after meals. For mini Goldendoodles, who often have smaller bladders, you may need to offer smaller, more frequent meals, while standard Goldendoodles might do well with two or three larger meals.
Additionally, monitor water intake—especially before bedtime—to minimize the chance of nighttime accidents.
Crate Training at Night
Helping Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night
Nighttime potty training is often one of the most challenging aspects. Using a crate at night can help your puppy develop better bladder control. Place the crate near your bed so you can hear if your puppy wakes up and needs to go out. While most puppies can hold their bladder longer while sleeping, very young or mini Goldendoodles might still need a middle-of-the-night break.
As your puppy grows and gains better bladder control, you’ll notice fewer nighttime interruptions, leading to a more peaceful night for both of you.
A Sample Daily Potty Training Schedule
Below is an example of a daily schedule for a 2-6 month old Goldendoodle puppy. Adjust this schedule based on your puppy’s needs and your own routine:
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7:00 AM: First potty break of the day right after waking up.
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7:15 AM: Playtime in a designated indoor area.
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7:30 AM: Breakfast time. After eating, wait about 15-20 minutes before taking your puppy out again.
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8:00 AM: Second potty break.
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8:30 AM – Noon: Supervised play and crate time with potty breaks every 45-60 minutes.
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Noon: Lunch and water. Follow up with a potty break 15-20 minutes later.
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1:00 PM: Crate time with engaging toys while you’re away.
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4:00 PM: Afternoon potty break.
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5:30 PM: Dinner and water, then a potty break shortly after.
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7:00 PM: Evening playtime with potty breaks every 45 minutes.
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10:00 PM: Final potty break before bed.
This schedule creates a predictable routine that helps your puppy learn when it’s time to eliminate. Consistency is key—if your puppy knows what to expect, they’re less likely to have accidents.
Additional Tips for Successful Potty Training
Be Patient and Consistent
Patience is the cornerstone of effective potty training. Every puppy learns at their own pace, and setbacks are part of the process. Stay consistent with your routine and reinforcement, and eventually, your Goldendoodle will catch on.
Limit Distractions During Potty Breaks
When it’s time to go out, minimize distractions. Focus solely on the potty break without playing or engaging in other activities until the task is complete. This clear focus helps your puppy understand that it’s time to do their business.
Use a Designated Command
Keep your potty command simple and consistent. Whether it’s “Go potty” or “Do your business,” use the same phrase every time. This repetition helps your puppy quickly learn the association between the command and the action.
Keep Training Sessions Short
Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long, drawn-out ones. Puppies have short attention spans, so keep each session brief but consistent throughout the day.
Monitor and Adjust
Pay close attention to your puppy’s progress. If accidents are still happening frequently, consider adjusting your schedule or consulting additional resources for tips. For further insights on potty training techniques, you might find these articles helpful:
Encourage Independence Gradually
As your puppy becomes more reliable, gradually give them more freedom. Supervised time outside of the crate or designated area can help build their confidence and independence. However, always be ready to guide them back if you notice signs that they need to go.
Avoid Punitive Measures
If accidents occur, never punish your puppy. Negative reinforcement can lead to anxiety and setbacks. Instead, focus on reinforcing the positive behaviors and gently correcting mistakes with redirection and praise.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Dealing with Regression
It’s not uncommon for puppies to regress in their training, especially during stressful times or if there’s a change in routine. Stay patient and return to your consistent schedule. Extra vigilance and frequent trips outside can help get your puppy back on track.
Handling Submissive Urination
Some Goldendoodles, particularly mini varieties, may experience submissive urination when they’re excited or nervous. This is typically a temporary behavior. Remain calm, avoid scolding, and give your puppy time to outgrow the habit as they become more confident.
Adjusting for Different Personalities
Every Goldendoodle is unique. Some may learn quickly, while others might take a bit longer to develop consistent habits. Tailor your approach based on your puppy’s individual needs. If you’re finding the process particularly challenging, consider reaching out to a professional trainer who specializes in puppy behavior.
Embracing the Journey of Potty Training
Training your Goldendoodle is not just about teaching them where to eliminate—it’s an opportunity to build a deeper bond with your new furry friend. Each step of the potty training process is a chance to reinforce your role as a caring, consistent leader. With each successful potty break, your puppy gains confidence and a better understanding of their routine, paving the way for a harmonious life together.
Remember, the early days might be challenging, but every small victory is a sign of progress. Celebrate those moments when your puppy gets it right, and know that every effort you put in now will pay off in the long run.
For more detailed information about Goldendoodles and their care, visit our Goldendoodles page. You can also learn more about the breed and its unique traits on our Nebraska Goldendoodle Facts page.
Additional Resources and Final Thoughts
The journey of potty training is one that every pet owner faces, and while it may seem overwhelming at times, remember that you’re not alone. Countless Goldendoodle owners have navigated these early challenges and emerged with a well-trained, happy companion. If you need extra support or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can always Contact Us at Rock Creek Puppies for personalized guidance and tips.
For those looking to further enhance their training techniques, check out these additional resources:
In conclusion, potty training your Goldendoodle is a vital step in ensuring that your new pet grows into a well-mannered and happy family member. With patience, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement, you’ll soon see your puppy develop the habits that lead to a clean, comfortable home environment. Embrace each stage of this process, and remember that every effort you make today builds the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior and a deep, lasting bond with your pet.
Your journey might have its ups and downs, but every little success is a step toward a well-trained Goldendoodle. Enjoy the process, and cherish the moments of growth and learning that you share with your puppy. After all, the time, effort, and love you invest in your Goldendoodle now will create a happy, well-adjusted companion for years to come.
Thank you for taking the time to read this comprehensive guide. We hope it has given you the tools and confidence to tackle potty training head-on. Remember, your new Goldendoodle is counting on you to lead them with kindness, patience, and consistency. And soon enough, you’ll look back on these early challenges as just another part of the incredible journey of pet parenthood.
Welcome to the family, and happy training!
This guide is brought to you by Rock Creek Puppies, where we’re dedicated to raising healthy, happy Goldendoodles. For more information about our puppies and our commitment to quality care, visit our Goldendoodles page or explore our resources on Nebraska Goldendoodle Facts. For personalized advice or to speak with one of our experts, please Contact Us.