Potty training can be very simple for some and require work for others. More often then not big breed dogs have no issue with potty training. Small dogs are our trouble makers here for the most part.
The most important thing you can do is be as consistent as possible. This is because this is the best way they learn. If sometimes they go out at 8am and others not until 10am they won't know when to go.
Try this:
Set a schedule make sure everyone in the family helps stick to it.
Puppies can only hold their bladders for approx. 4 hours until they are around 7 or 8 months.
Interesting enough their bodies will conform to your schedule.
Keep it boring when you are outside.
If your dog pees outside then comes inside and pees again it is because they may have been distracted outside
Even in your backyard keep them on a leash to help them focus.
Make it a trained behavior
Make sure you bring the treats with you the closer you give the treat the more your dog will associate it with the action and word.
When they go say a word (such as "Potty") then after they are done give them a treat right afte
Keep them contained
When they are home alone keep them in a crate or area they can be confined
When you are home keep them with you either on a leash or confined to the room you are in (so they can't sneak away)
This will help with unwanted behaviors too (chewing, barking, separation anxiety).
Redirect don't get mad
When you see them going inside pick them up and bring them outside
This shows them where the right place to go is.
You can give a negative marker ("ah ah") but try not to shout or get mad.
Things to avoid:
Rubbing their noses in it
This makes them scared of you
It can make them hide their potty or even eat it in fear
Giving the treat when you go inside.
You are rewarding the dog coming inside not the potty
Avoid using potty pads and outside at the same time.
It is easier for them to understand one place to go instead of sometimes go inside sometimes outside
Some dogs are just more difficult and set in their ways then humans. I have my theories on why small dogs tend to struggle with this. I won't dive into that right now. Patience is another very important concept to keep in mind. It takes time for some puppies to understand us being firm but gentle will help you both understand each other better.
That's it for now if you have a topic you would like me to cover or questions about what I went over contact me
