Build the schedule
Take the puppy out first thing in the morning, after every nap, after every meal, after play, and before bed. Young puppies need an outing roughly every hour they are awake. Go to the same spot, wait, and reward the moment they finish — not when they come back inside.
Use the crate and supervision
A correctly sized crate — big enough to stand, turn and lie down, no bigger — helps the puppy learn to hold it. When the puppy is loose in the house, it should be within sight or tethered near you. Unsupervised freedom is how accidents happen.
Handle accidents correctly
Interrupt calmly, take the puppy outside, reward if they finish there. Punishing after the fact teaches the puppy to hide where it goes, not to hold it. Clean with an enzymatic cleaner so the spot does not smell like a bathroom.
When it isn't working
Frequent accidents in a puppy who was previously reliable, straining, or very frequent small urinations warrant a veterinary check for a urinary tract infection before you change your training.
Every dog is different. If you want a recommendation for your dog specifically, tell us what's going on and we'll point you to the right program — we're at 8618 Ridgefield Rd, Crystal Lake, IL.