Free printable puppy potty-training checklist
Updated November 1, 2026
A one-page checklist you can print and stick on the fridge, so everyone in the house follows the same routine.
Set up before day one
- Pick one potty spot (outdoors or a pad/grass tray) and keep it in the same place.
- Get an enzyme cleaner for accidents; it breaks down the odor that draws a puppy back to the same spot.
- Set up a crate or small pen sized so the puppy can stand, turn and lie down, but not use one end as a toilet.
- Agree on one cue word (for example "go potty") that everyone uses.
Daily routine
- Take the puppy out first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and after every meal, nap and play session.
- Feed on a regular schedule instead of leaving food out all day.
- Go to the same spot each time and wait quietly; praise or reward within a few seconds of finishing.
- Supervise indoors; if you cannot watch, use the crate or pen for short periods.
When accidents happen
- Interrupt calmly if you catch it, then take the puppy straight to the potty spot.
- Never punish after the fact; puppies do not connect it to the accident.
- Clean the spot fully with the enzyme cleaner.
- Write down the time of each accident to spot patterns and adjust the schedule.
Call your vet if
- Accidents suddenly increase after progress, or the puppy strains, pees very often or there is blood in the urine; these can be medical, not training, problems.
This checklist is general information, built from the sources below. It is not professional advice for your situation.