House training
How do I set up a potty schedule chart for a new puppy?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
List the puppy's fixed anchor points, waking, meals, naps and bedtime, down the side of a simple sheet, and add columns for the time of each trip, whether it was a success or accident, and who took them out. Keeping it on the fridge or by the door for the first 2 weeks reveals patterns fast and keeps every family member on the same routine.
Why a written log beats memory
Two weeks into a busy household, it is easy to lose track of whether the puppy actually went out 90 minutes ago or 3 hours ago, and that gap is exactly where accidents happen. A chart taped near the door takes the guesswork out and lets anyone in the house glance at it before deciding whether a trip is due.
Reading the chart after a week
Look back after 5 to 7 days for repeating gaps, such as accidents clustering around the same time each afternoon, which usually points to a specific trigger like a nap ending unnoticed. Once the pattern is clear, adjust the schedule to add a trip right before that window rather than continuing to react after the fact.
Key takeaways
- A simple chart with time, result and who took the puppy out keeps a whole household consistent.
- Reviewing the chart after a week often reveals a specific recurring trigger behind repeat accidents.
- Keeping the chart visible near the door removes the guesswork that memory alone cannot handle.