Today was Aldo’s first day of potty training. He’s been outside at least 6 times, but hasn’t peed or pooped all day. I’m trying to get him to do his business in a spot near our patio since we live in an apartment and don’t have much space. Is it normal for him to not go at all on his first day?
Yeah, I’m in the same boat with my dog. It can take a while for them to get comfortable with a new potty routine. Have you tried taking him out at quieter times? That might help.
Avery said:
Yeah, I’m in the same boat with my dog. It can take a while for them to get comfortable with a new potty routine. Have you tried taking him out at quieter times? That might help.
I haven’t tried quieter times, but that sounds like a good idea. I’ll give it a shot tomorrow! Thanks for the tip 
I went through something similar. It took a few days for my dog to figure out the potty spot. Just keep taking him there consistently, and it’ll get easier! You might also want to try a potty command while he’s out there.
@Meech
That makes sense, I’ve been saying ‘go potty’ but he’s not catching on yet. Hopefully he’ll get the hang of it soon.
It sounds like Aldo might just be nervous or stressed out. My dog had a tough time at first too, but I kept taking him outside on a leash, giving treats when he went, and being patient. It worked eventually!
@malcolmblack
Yeah, I heard that it can take some time for them to feel comfortable enough to go. How long did it take for your dog to get the hang of it?
Jordanmatter said:
@malcolmblack
Yeah, I heard that it can take some time for them to feel comfortable enough to go. How long did it take for your dog to get the hang of it?
It took about a week for him to start going consistently outside, but it felt like forever at the time! Just keep being consistent.
I’ve been crate training my dog too. If he doesn’t go outside, I just bring him back in and crate him for a bit. Then I try again after 10 minutes. It sounds like it’s working for Aldo, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
@Giovanni
I’m starting to see how that could work, even though it’s kind of exhausting. I’ll keep trying!
Have you tried using a potty bell yet? That helped my dog get the hang of signaling when it’s time to go outside. You can start ringing it each time you take him out, and eventually, he might do it himself.
@Davis
That’s a great idea! I’ve seen some dogs use bells like that, but I didn’t think Aldo would catch on. I’ll look into it!