How Do You Potty Train a Small Dog in the Winter?

dog walking in winter for potty

Potty training a small dog is already a delicate process—but when winter arrives with freezing temperatures, icy winds, and wet ground, it can feel almost impossible. Many pet owners struggle because their dogs simply don’t want to step outside. Cold-sensitive breeds often refuse to leave their warm beds, and accidents inside the home can quickly become a daily frustration.

But the good news? Puppy training in winter is completely doable—especially with the right strategies designed specifically for small dogs.

Why Potty Training a Puppy in Winter Is More Challenging

Small dogs face unique challenges in winter that larger breeds often don’t experience. Understanding these obstacles helps you create a training plan that actually works.

1. Small Dogs Feel the Cold More Intensely

Breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, and toy poodles have:

• Thin fur

• Smaller body mass

• Less resistance to cold winds and wet surfaces

This makes stepping outdoors in winter uncomfortable—sometimes even painful—for them.

2. Wet and Frozen Ground Can Be Intimidating

Snow, ice, slush, and puddles feel strange beneath a puppy’s paws. This often leads to hesitation or refusal to eliminate outdoors.

3. Owners Avoid Going Outside Too

Let’s be honest—no one loves standing outside in freezing weather at 6 AM. When owners rush or skip outdoor potty breaks, consistency drops.

4. Strong Winter Smells Make Indoor Spots More Appealing

Heating vents and carpets trap scents, making it harder for a puppy to distinguish the right potty location.

Despite these challenges, the solution lies in smart winter-specific strategies.

Proven Strategies for Potty Training a Puppy in Winter

1. Create a Warm and Comfortable Outdoor Potty Zone

If your dog hates the cold, make the outdoors feel less harsh.

Tips:

• Shovel or clear a small area of snow for potty breaks.

• Use pet-safe ice melt to prevent paw discomfort.

• Place a patch of turf or grass on your balcony or yard to give your dog a familiar surface.

A dedicated zone helps reinforce the habit every time they step outside.

2. Keep Outings Short but Frequent

Long potty walks are unnecessary—especially in freezing temperatures.

Do this instead:

• Take your dog out every 1–2 hours.

• Keep breaks to 3–5 minutes.

• Immediately bring the dog back inside after they eliminate it.

Short bursts reduce cold exposure while maintaining routine.

3. Dress Your Small Dog for the Weather

Warm clothing makes a huge difference in how comfortable a small dog feels outdoors.

Winter gear essentials:

✔ A warm, snug-fitting dog sweater or coat ✔ Waterproof booties to protect paws ✔ Paw balm to prevent cracking

A warm dog is a cooperative dog.

4. Use High-Value Rewards the Moment They Go

Winter potty training works best when your puppy thinks going outside is absolutely worth the effort.

Use:

• Small pieces of chicken

• Cheese

• Salmon treats

• Highly rewarding praise

Reward within 1–2 seconds of the behaviour so they clearly understand what earned the treat.

5. Avoid Using Pee Pads as the First Option

Pee pads can confuse small dogs because they introduce an indoor potty location. However, if you live in an apartment or temperatures drop dangerously low, you can use pee pads as a temporary backup—but always transition outdoors eventually.

6. Stick to a Consistent Winter Routine

Winter potty training demands structure. Small dogs thrive on predictable schedules.

Daily Routine Example:

• Morning: Take out as soon as your puppy wakes up

• After meals: 10–15 minutes after eating

• Before sleep: A final potty break to reduce nighttime accidents

• Every 2 hours: For young puppies still learning

Consistency builds strong habits—even in cold weather.

Indoor Training Backup Plan (Only for Severe Cold)

On extreme winter days (heavy snow, ice storms, below-freezing temperatures), your puppy may genuinely struggle. In those cases, use this temporary indoor potty system without breaking your long-term goals.

Indoor Setup Options

• Artificial grass patch

• Washable potty pads

• Dog litter box for tiny breeds

Place the indoor potty spot near the door they usually use so transitioning outdoors becomes easy once temperatures improve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Potty Training in Winter

Many owners unknowingly make mistakes that slow down progress. Avoid these to make training smoother:

1. Letting the Puppy Roam Unsupervised Indoors

Accidents will happen when you can’t watch them. Use gates or keep them near you during training weeks.

2. Punishing Indoor Accidents

Punishment increases fear and anxiety—especially in winter when your dog already feels stressed. Instead:

• Interrupt gently

• Clean with enzymatic cleaner

• Guide them to the right potty spot next time

3. Waiting Too Long Between Potty Breaks

A small puppy’s bladder cannot hold for extended periods—especially in cold weather.

Pro Puppy Training Tips to Support Winter Potty Training

Here are some essential puppy training tips you can use:

1. Use Crate Training to Build Good Habits

Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.A crate helps regulate potty timing and prevents nighttime accidents.

2. Reinforce Routines with Positive Training

Winter makes training harder, so be extra consistent with rewards and timing.

3. Stay Patient—Progress Takes Time

Even the smartest puppies need repetition, especially in unusual weather conditions.

These tips strengthen learning during winter and all year round.

How Long Does Potty Training in Winter Take?

Small dogs usually need:

• 4–8 weeks for basic potty reliability

• Up to 3 months for full consistency

Winter may extend this timeline slightly, but with the right approach, your puppy will learn just as successfully.

Final Tips: Setting Your Small Dog Up for Winter Potty Training Success

Potty training in winter isn’t impossible—it just requires a strategic and patient approach. Remember these key takeaways:

✔ Keep outdoor potty trips short and frequent ✔ Create a warm, easy-to-access potty zone ✔ Use high-value rewards immediately ✔ Dress your small dog properly ✔ Avoid punishing accidents ✔ Apply proven puppy training tips ✔ Be consistent—even when it's cold

With these winter-specific strategies, your small dog can confidently learn where and when to go, no matter how chilly it gets outside.

FAQs: Potty Training a Small Dog in the Winter

1. Why do small dogs struggle more with potty training in winter?

Small dogs often feel more intensely cold due to their small size and thin coats. Freezing temperatures, wet ground, and icy wind make them reluctant to go outside, which can delay potty training progress.

2. How can I encourage my dog to go outside when it’s extremely cold?

Make the outdoor potty area as comfortable as possible by clearing snow, using turf, and dressing your pup in warm clothing. High-value treats and quick, short trips can also motivate your dog.

3. Should I use pee pads for winter potty training?

Pee pads can be used temporarily, especially during harsh weather, but they should not replace outdoor training completely. Overuse may confuse your dog about where the bathroom truly is.

4. How often should I take my puppy outside in the winter?

In cold months, frequent but short trips work best. Puppies usually need to go out every 1–2 hours, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime.

5. What should I do if my puppy keeps having accidents indoors?

Clean accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odor. Avoid punishment—simply supervise more closely and guide your puppy to the right spot during the next potty break.

6. How can I protect my dog’s paws during winter potty trips?

Use dog booties or apply paw balm before going outside. This helps protect paws from ice, salt, and cold surfaces, making your dog more comfortable during potty breaks.

7. Can crate training help with winter potty training?

Yes, crate training helps regulate your puppy’s bathroom schedule. Dogs naturally avoid eliminating in their sleeping area, making it easier to predict when they need to go out.

8. How long does potty training usually take in winter?

Because of cold weather challenges, winter potty training may take slightly longer—typically 6 to 10 weeks for consistent results, depending on age and breed.

9. Is it safe for small puppies to go outside during freezing temperatures?

Short supervised potty breaks are safe if your puppy is dressed warmly. If temperatures drop dangerously low, use a temporary indoor potty spot until conditions improve.

10. What can I do to speed up the potty training process in winter?

Stick to a strict routine, reward immediately after successful potty trips, keep the outdoor potty area clear, and use positive reinforcement. Consistency and patience are the biggest factors in winter potty training success.