6 Best Online Dog Training Courses for Potty Training

Potty training can be a challenging process for both new and experienced dog owners alike. These online courses offer expert advice, step-by-step tutorials, and practical techniques, all aimed at transforming your furry friend’s habits in no time. Whether you have a stubborn puppy or an older dog that needs a little guidance, these resources will equip you with the skills you need to successfully navigate housebreaking your pup.

Our Picks for the Best Online Dog Training Classes for Potty Training

The iHeartDogs team reviewed all the popular online dog training courses that include a class on potty training. Here’s our top recommendations:

1. K9 Training Institute (Best Overall)

K9 Training Institute vows to train your dog to behave by using the same techniques used to keep service dogs so calm and well-behaved. Most of this company’s training focuses on body language instead of verbal commands. These methods can work for all dogs regardless of their age or breed.

This company’s online training starts with a free workshop that covers topics like barking, chewing, potty training, nipping, leash pulling, house-breaking and ignoring commands. Once you complete the free training workshop, you can choose to purchase more online classes to further your furry friend’s learning. After all, training is something that should continue throughout your dog’s life, not just for one class.

The trainers at this company are especially passionate about helping train rescue dogs to give them better chances at success in their new homes.

2. SpiritDog Training (Best on a Budget)

SpiritDog Training offers online dog training courses for canines of all ages, breeds, behaviors, and training levels. The dog trainers at this company have created videos to walk dog parents through each course, and you can rewatch videos as many times as needed. Every person who signs up for SpiritDog gets unlimited feedback from professional trainers for life. So, if you get stuck while watching a video, you can ask a trainer as many questions as you’d like.

You can choose from individual courses, or you can purchase bundles to save money. Here are some of SpiritDog’s most popular bundles:

SpiritDog courses always focus on housebreaking your dog, positive reinforcement training to make training an uplifting, productive experience for dogs and set them up for success. These classes differ from in-person training because they allow you to train your dog at your own pace in an environment that’s comfortable for them.

3. Kingdom of Pets

Kingdom of Pets offers several books dedicated to dog training. Yet, many pet parents benefit more from seeing dog training in action rather than just reading about it. Thus, the company also has many online training videos for purchase, covering areas like leash walking, barking, chewing, and aggression.

Once you purchase a training package, you get lifetime access to that content. All courses from Kingdom of Pets aim to create positive experiences for dogs, and they teach customers how to effectively use reward-based training in a way that’s beneficial for both you and your canine companion. The trainers at Kingdom of Pets want to ensure that their training resources are effective for pet parents, so if you don’t find success within the first 60 days of training, you can get a refund with no questions asked.

However, this company allows you to try a free 6-day course before paying anything to ensure that this is the right training company for you. The free course offers information about dog and cat training, pet health needs, and animal behaviors.

4. Brain Training for Dogs

The professional trainer who runs Brain Training for Dogs spent ten years perfecting her training methods. Thus, her online training classes are in-depth and designed to tackle any behavioral issue in dogs, no matter how complicated the issues may seem. The training focuses on a dog’s mental stimulation to enhance their intelligence and learning capabilities. The courses will also help dog parents get to the root of the problem instead of only fixing it on a surface level.

Some of the many issues these training courses focus on include potty training, jumping, digging, excessive barking, and ignoring commands. The course videos get right to the point so you don’t have to waste any time. The trainer approaches each problem behavior by finding a way for the dog to understand what they’re supposed to be doing.

Once you order the bundle of all these classes, the trainer will offer you support along the way whenever you need it. The first 60 days of the program is a trial period, so if you don’t find success with the training practices, you can get your money back. That’s how important your dog’s success is to this company.

5. Dunbar Academy

Like K9 Training Institute, Dunbar Academy offers a Free Course Collection for dog parents that aren’t sure if online training is right for them. They offer several free courses, such as “Guide to Getting a Puppy or Dog,” “Six Simple Steps to Solve Your Dog’s Behavior Problems,” and “Dog Shelter Behavior & Training Program.”

If you like the way the free courses work, you can get more in-depth courses through a monthly or yearly fee. With the subscription, you can access hundreds of hours of content to help your dog succeed. That content includes videos, ebooks, podcasts, worksheets, and webinars, so there are methods that appeal to every person. You’ll also get access to a Facebook group where you can get training advice from dog trainers and other members.

You can also purchase individual bundles instead of a subscription if you only want to focus on certain training areas. Some popular bundles include Puppy Training, Behavior Problems, and a Games Workshop. The trainers at this company focus on games and reward-based training to get positive results.

Related: 5 Best Dog Subscription Boxes

6. Holly and Hugo

Holly and Hugo not only offers a variety of training courses, but they also have videos about animal behavior and care. With the help of pet experts and experienced teachers, you can access a variety of videos and content to improve your pet’s life. The courses cover topics like training, animal psychology, pet sitting, and grooming.

Customers can purchase courses individually or pay a discounted price to get access to all the courses. At the end, you get a certificate of completion. Some of the courses even qualify for CE and CPD points for dog lovers looking to pursue a career in the animal industry.

This training option is great for dog parents who like to work on a schedule because once you activate a course, you have 60 days to complete it (unless you choose to extend it). With a time limit in place, it can help keep you motivated to train regularly so your dog can succeed. The trainers at Holly and Hugo love dogs as much as you, so they set up these courses to provide the best support for your furry friend.

In Addition to An Online Potty Training Course, What Tools or Products Might I Need?

Potty training your dog can require a number of different tools. Here are some essentials that will help the process run more smoothly:

Crate or Playpen: This can serve as your dog’s den and help with creating a consistent routine. Dogs usually don’t like to soil their personal space, so using a crate or playpen can encourage them to hold until it’s time for a potty break.
Dog Leash: Useful for taking your dog to their designated potty area consistently. This helps your dog associate this area with elimination.
Puppy Pads: These are excellent for younger puppies who have not yet learned to control their bladders. They can also be useful for dogs living in apartments or houses without yards.
Dog Treats: Positive reinforcement is key when potty training a dog. Rewarding your dog with a treat immediately after they’ve successfully done their business in the right spot can encourage repeated behavior.
Cleaning Supplies: Despite your best efforts, accidents will happen. Be prepared with pet-friendly cleaning supplies to thoroughly clean up any messes, helping to prevent your dog from soiling the same area in the future.
Enzymatic Cleaner: These cleaners are designed to eliminate odors instead of just masking them. They can be very useful as dogs often urinate or defecate in the same place due to the smell.
Potty Bells or Doorbells: Some owners train their dogs to signal when they need to go outside by ringing a bell. This can be an effective tool for communication between the dog and the owner.
Patience and Consistency: These aren’t physical tools, but they’re essential. Your dog is learning something new and it will take time. Be consistent in your routine and patient with your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions When Potty Training Your Dog Using an Online Course

At what age should I start potty training my puppy? Potty training should start as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually around 8 weeks old. Early training can help establish good habits and make the process easier.
How long does it take to potty train a dog using an online potty training course? It varies from dog to dog, but on average, it takes 4-6 months for a puppy to be fully house trained. Some dogs may take up to a year. Consistency and patience are key.
My dog is older – can it still be potty trained? Yes, older dogs can be potty trained. It may require more patience as you’re dealing with established habits, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, they can learn.
What should I do if my dog has an accident in the house? If you catch your dog in the act, interrupt them and take them to their potty area. If you find the mess afterwards, just clean it up. Scolding after the fact won’t help as they won’t understand what they did wrong.
How often should I take my puppy out to go potty? Puppies have small bladders and high metabolisms, which means they need to go out frequently. A general rule is that a puppy can hold its bladder for as many hours as they are months old, up to about 9 months.
Should I use puppy pads for housebreaking training? Puppy pads can be useful, especially for those living in apartments or in cold climates. However, they can sometimes confuse a puppy about where it’s acceptable to go, so transitioning to outdoors may take additional training.
My dog is peeing in the crate, what should I do? First, make sure the crate is the right size – it should be big enough for your dog to turn around and lie down, but not much bigger. Too much space can lead a dog to eliminate in one corner. Also, ensure your dog is not left in the crate for too long.
Why does my dog keep having accidents at night? This could be due to several reasons, such as urinary tract infections, excessive water drinking, or simply that your dog can’t hold it all night. If it’s a consistent problem, a vet check-up is advisable.
Can I train my dog to use a litter box? Yes, it is possible, especially for smaller breeds. This method is similar to using puppy pads and can be particularly useful for those living in apartments or unable to take their dogs out frequently.
How can I tell if my dog needs to go potty? Common signs include sniffing around, circling, whining, scratching at the door, or going to the place where they usually go outside. With time, you’ll learn to read your specific dog’s signals.
Is it better to potty train a dog with a crate or playpen? Both methods can be effective. It often depends on your dog’s preference and your own lifestyle. Crate training is great for establishing a routine, while a playpen provides more space and freedom for your dog.
What is the best method for potty training a dog? The best method is often the one that works for both you and your dog. Most trainers recommend a mix of confinement (using a crate or playpen), frequent trips outside, and plenty of positive reinforcement.
How can I speed up the potty training process? Consistency and a regular schedule can help speed up the process. However, each dog is unique and it’s important not to rush them. Rewarding them for doing well can also encourage faster learning.
What should I do if my dog starts going potty in the house after being fully trained? Sudden changes in behavior could be due to a medical issue, stress, or changes in the environment. A visit to the vet can help rule out any medical problems. If it’s a behavioral issue, some refresher training might be needed.
Is it beneficial to use a professional dog trainer for potty training? While many owners successfully potty train their dogs on their own using an online potty training course like the ones above, a professional dog trainer can provide personalized guidance and can be particularly helpful if you’re dealing with stubborn behavior or specific challenges.
Is there a difference between house-breaking and potty training a dog? Housebreaking and potty training are often used interchangeably in reference to the process of teaching your dog to eliminate outside or in a designated indoor area. They both refer to the same concept of teaching your dog where it’s appropriate to go to the bathroom.However, if we were to differentiate them, “housebreaking” could be seen as a broader term that not only includes teaching your dog where to eliminate, but also other house manners like not chewing furniture or jumping on guests, whereas “potty training” specifically refers to teaching your dog where to go to the bathroom. But again, in most dog training discussions, these terms are used to mean the same thing.

Conclusion: Best House-Training Online Courses for Dogs

Training your dog doesn’t have to be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to potty training. With these top 6 online dog training courses, you have access to some of the best resources right at your fingertips. Each course brings a unique approach, ensuring you have a range of strategies to help your dog. By dedicating time and being consistent, you’ll soon see your efforts bear fruit as your dog masters potty training. Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, so patience is key to your success.

Justin Palmer