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The Puppy Water Schedule and More: A Guide to Successful Housebreaking

Updated: Aug 18, 2021


fluffy white puppy is outside on the grass on a hot pink leash.
Puppy water schedule

Setting up a puppy water schedule and housebreaking can be a challenge. Fortunately, our experts at CanineJulz put together this blog to help!


In this guide, we'll discuss:

  • How to implement a puppy water schedule

  • Why water intake is so important

  • When to withhold your pup's water supply

And other key elements to successful housebreaking, so you know the best way to keep your new best friend happy and healthy for life!


Table of Contents

  1. Implementing A Water Schedule for Your Puppy

  2. Why Do Puppies Need A Water Schedule?

  3. Housebreaking Puppies: Getting Started in 3 Steps

  4. Creating Safe Spaces: The Den and The Crate

  5. The Den

  6. The Crate

  7. Housebreaking 101: Supervision and Prevention

  8. Daytime Supervision and Prevention

  9. Nighttime Supervision and Prevention

  10. It’s All About Balance!

  11. One More Quick Tip for Housebreaking Success

  12. Conclusion

People Also Ask:


How much water should a puppy drink during potty training?


Growing puppies often require about 2 cups of water after several hours, especially while potty training.


The exact amount of water given can vary depending on their:

  • Size

  • Breed

  • Age

When should you give puppies water?


Start introducing water and food around 3 to 4 weeks of age.


This is the best time to start slowly wean your puppy from their mother's milk and care, so they learn to become more independent.


Should puppies have free water access?


Julie and our team recommend providing clean water and free access to your puppy throughout the day to keep them hydrated. However, you'll need to supervise their water intake.


Can a puppy go 8 hours without water?


Most adults dogs can go up to 8 hours without water. Puppies often need water throughout the day.


You also can help your pup stay hydrated by adding more moisture to their food.


Should you leave water out all day for a puppy?


You should withhold your pup's access to water at night while housebreaking.


Be sure to keep up the puppy water schedule and give them regular access to fresh water during the day with supervision.


Can you give a puppy too much water?


Supervising your pup's water intake is vital because not enough could lead to:

  • Dehydration

  • Kidney stones

  • Organ failure

Drinking too much can also be toxic. Setting up a water schedule for your puppy is essential for their health and happiness.


How long does it take to potty-train a puppy?


It often takes 4 to 6 months for most puppies to be fully housebroken, but some pups may need up to 12 months. The size and breed can be the main contributing factors.


Implementing A Water Schedule for Your Puppy


Just like people, puppies do well when they follow a set schedule that includes their water intake.


Having a water schedule for your pup is especially helpful in the first few weeks when their life involves:

  • Meeting the family

  • Training

  • Vaccinations

When implementing a water intake schedule, it’s best to follow this general rule: give your puppy about one-half cup of water every 2 hours.


Why Do Puppies Need A Water Schedule?


Dogs and puppies don’t come into a new home for the first time knowing where to go or what to do. They need time and guidance to understand how to adapt to their new family and environment!


Establishing a schedule that monitors their water, food, play and sleep helps establish consistency.


This consistency is essential when housebreaking and also helps promote:

  • Proper potty training

  • Good eating habits

  • Healthy confidence and bonding

Something as simple as a water schedule can create a routine that helps make your puppy less stressed and prevent bad habits and behaviors.


Housebreaking Puppies: Getting Started in 3 Steps


It's important to realize that when getting a new puppy the first few days are often the hardest. Change for any animal, especially young puppies is always an adjustment.


Step 1: Where Will the Puppy Sleep at Night?


Dogs are den animals by nature. Creating a space that represents a “den”, such a crate is a great starting point.


Step 2: Where Will Your Pup Stay During the Day When You Aren’t Home?