Learning how to potty train is one of the most important first steps you can take with a new puppy. Scolding, especially after the fact, isn’t going to do anything. But praising and treating a puppy for doing the right thing works best for all training. If they have an accident, just clean up the mess using a cleaner that kills odors to remove the scent so they won’t use that spot in the future.
When it comes to housetraining, praise and prevention are key. You have to watch your puppy carefully for individual signals. If you catch them starting to squat, pick them up and rush them outside. Puppy pads can be tricky since the puppy has to learn two options, but for some who can’t be with their puppy throughout the day, or where the outside is just too cold, puppy pads give a dog the option of an approved spot in the home.
If you work, make some kind of arrangement to keep your puppy on their schedule. The quicker you convey the idea that there is an approved place, the sooner accidents will stop happening.