Potty Training Your Puppy in an Apartment (Yes, It’s Totally Possible!)

by Courtney Goblirsch

Potty training a puppy is tough, but potty training in an apartment? That’s a whole different level. Between elevator rides, long hallways, and limited access to grass, getting your puppy outside in time can feel like a daily challenge. But here’s the good news: it’s absolutely possible. With the right strategy, a little planning, and a lot of patience, you can help your puppy succeed, even six-plus floors up.

The biggest key is timing. Puppies need frequent, predictable potty breaks, especially when they’re young. A good starting point is taking them out first thing in the morning, after meals and naps, after play sessions, and every 30 to 45 minutes in between. Even if your puppy just went out, if you notice signs like sniffing, circling, or sneaking off behind furniture, it’s time to go again. And in an apartment setting, it’s smart to be a little ahead of schedule. Just getting to the elevator can eat up those precious seconds.

If your puppy is still tiny, carrying them on the way down can help prevent accidents in the hallway or elevator. It’s not a long-term solution, but it can be a lifesaver during those early weeks when their bladder control is still developing. And yes, things will get easier as they mature! Most puppies gain significantly better bladder control between four to six months of age, especially with a consistent routine.

When you’re outside, it helps to use a potty cue like “go potty” right as your pup starts to go. This teaches them to associate the cue with the action, which is especially helpful on cold mornings or when time is short. Once they finish, praise them like crazy and offer a treat immediately, right there on the spot. Positive reinforcement is one of the most powerful tools you have. 

Crates and pens are also essential in apartment living. If you cannot supervise your puppy closely, using a crate or a gated pen helps prevent accidents and teaches them to hold it until you take them out. Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas, so using this to your advantage during rest and downtime can reinforce great habits. Be sure to take them straight outside after crate time to continue building that connection.

And yes, accidents will happen. It’s part of the process. If you catch your puppy mid-accident, calmly interrupt with a soft “uh-oh” and take them outside. If you find it after the fact, simply clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner and move on. There’s no need to scold. Potty training is about teaching, not punishing. 

Keeping a simple log of meals, naps, and potty times can also be incredibly helpful. Over time, you’ll begin to see patterns, making it easier to predict when your puppy will need to go. What feels like constant guesswork, in the beginning, will turn into a routine that both you and your puppy can count on.

Potty training in an apartment isn’t always easy, but it’s doable. With consistency, a positive mindset, and a little planning, your puppy will learn the ropes in no time. You’re doing great and you’ve got this!