Having a puppy—and, later, a dog—is an incredible source of joy for many families. However, if you have a young pup that’s not yet housetrained, their inexperience can lead to accidents and carpet stains. Here are some tips to form a proper training plan so you can avoid the need for pet odor removal sooner.

How to Potty Train Your Pup

1. Consider Their Age & Background

When you prepare to potty train, try to understand your puppy’s experience in life up to this point. A dog rescued from a shelter might have become accustomed to using the tight quarters of their kennel or cage because it was the only option available.

Another puppy that has been raised in a home from birth might understand the concept of going outside sooner than others. Just like people, each dog is unique, and their learning abilities vary.

2. Use a Crate & Other Tools

Use an appropriately sized crate, training pads, paper training, and positive reinforcement to help prevent the need for frequent carpet cleaning and pet odor removal. If you’re away from home for several hours a day or battling the cold Wisconsin or Minnesota weather, these training tools are particularly helpful in establishing a permitted area for your puppy to go while inside the house.

3. Remember That Accidents Happen

Introducing a puppy to your household takes a great deal of time and patience, especially in the beginning. In general, puppies tend to appreciate a clean living area and won’t soil it if they can help it. Cleaning thoroughly after a puppy leaves a mess behind eliminates the urge for them to use the same area repeatedly. It also prevents the need for pet odor removal in your house due to frequent accidents. With pet urine odor and carpet stains, your home may require an expert treatment for successful, permanent removal.

The benefits outweigh the stresses when your puppy grows up to be a well-trained dog. However, the occasional accident is inevitable, and so is the need for regular, professional carpet cleaning. That’s why residents in La Crosse, WI, and Rochester, Austin, Winona, and Owatonna, MN, trust America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services for pet odor removal, upholstery cleaning, air duct cleaning, and treatment of carpet stains. They have an A+ Better Business Bureau® rating, and their motto is “24 hours a day, just a phone call away!” Call (608) 782-6995 or visit their website to find out more about how they will keep your home’s carpets clean.