Three focused days of skill-building. Each session is 5–15 minutes. Start whenever you're ready.
Why this first: A potty cue gives you control over when and where your dog goes — the foundation of preventing accidents.
Take your dog outside on leash to a consistent spot. Wait quietly without walking around.
The moment they begin to go, say your cue word ("go potty") once, calmly.
Mark and reward immediately after they finish. Give them free outdoor time as a bonus reward.
your dog will respond to the cue within 3–5 repetitions. The spot consistency matters more than the word.
📅 Applied at every outdoor potty trip today
Why this first: The crate isn't a cage — it's your dog's den. Today you build an association that makes them want to go in.
Toss treats progressively closer to, then inside, then to the back of the crate. Never close the door yet.
Feed your dog's meals with their bowl inside the crate, door open.
Once they enter voluntarily, say "crate" and briefly close and immediately reopen. Extend by 10-second increments.
your dog will be entering voluntarily for food by tonight. No pressure — that's the entire goal today.
📅 3 sessions throughout the day
Why this first: Every dog needs an "off" switch. your dog's mat becomes the place where the world gets small and calm again.
Place a mat in a quiet corner. Toss a treat onto it and say "mat" when your dog steps on.
Build duration: reward for 5 seconds, then 15, then 30. Stay nearby at first.
Practice while something mildly distracting happens — someone walking past, a noise.
your dog will go to their mat on cue by tonight. That mat is now a skill.
📅 3 sessions × 10 minutes
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