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8 Secrets to Quickly Potty Training a Corgi

Written by: Arlene D.
| Published on May 10, 2024
iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may include affiliate links where we are paid a commission at no additional cost to you. 

Potty training a Corgi can be a challenging task, especially for new dog owners. While Corgis are intelligent and trainable, they can be stubborn at times. Therefore, it’s essential to have a solid plan and be consistent with training to ensure successful potty training. Fortunately, there are several secrets that can help you quickly potty train your Corgi without much hassle. From understanding when your Corgi needs to go potty to establishing a consistent potty schedule, these secrets can make a significant difference in how fast you can potty train your Corgi. In this article, we’ll explore seven secrets to quickly potty training a Corgi.

Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Corgi, you may consider seeking the help of a professional online dog training course such as SpiritDog, K9 Training Institute or DogAcademy, three of our favorite training resources for potty training.

8 Secrets for Housetraining Your Corgi

1. Start Potty Training Your Corgi Early and Be Consistent

The sooner you begin potty training your Corgi, the better. Puppies can start learning as early as eight weeks old, and it’s easier for them to pick up good habits at this young age. Consistency is also crucial. Choose a designated potty spot outdoors and always bring your Corgi to that same area. Stick to a routine, and take them out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Your dog will associate the spot with going potty, and the consistent schedule will help reinforce the behavior.

2. Give Your Corgi Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Corgi successfully goes potty outside, offer praise, treats, or playtime as a reward. This will help your dog associate going to the bathroom outside with positive experiences, making them more likely to repeat the behavior. Make sure to reward them immediately after they finish, as dogs have a short memory and may not connect the reward with the action if there’s a delay.

3. Monitor Your Corgi’s Behavior

Pay attention to your Corgi’s body language and habits, as they can give you clues when they need to go. Common signs include sniffing, circling, whining, or scratching at the door. If you notice any of these behaviors, take your dog outside immediately. In time, you’ll be able to anticipate your dog’s needs, preventing accidents before they happen.

RELATED: Need to potty train your Corgi quickly? Check out these affordable online courses!

4. Confine Your Corgi to a Small Area

When you’re not able to supervise your Corgi, confine them to a small, designated area or crate. Dogs are naturally clean animals and don’t like to soil their living space. By limiting their space, you encourage them to hold it until they can go outside. Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.

5. Gradually Increase Your Corgi’s Freedom

As your Corgi becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually increase their freedom in the house. Start by allowing them access to one additional room, and monitor their behavior closely. If they continue to have accidents, return to the smaller confinement area and try again later. Gradually expanding their space will help them learn to hold it until they’re outside, even when they’re not in a confined area.

6. Try Using Potty Bells

Potty bells can be a useful tool to let your Corgi know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Corgi to ring the bell with their paw or nose before exiting the door that leads to their potty area. There are many types of potty bells available on Amazon, such as this: 

7. Be Patient with Your Corgi and Stay Positive

Potty training can be a frustrating process, but it’s essential to stay patient and maintain a positive attitude. Dogs can sense your emotions, and if you’re stressed or angry, it can hinder their progress. Remember that accidents will happen, but don’t punish your Corgi for them. Instead, clean up the mess thoroughly to remove any lingering odors that may encourage your dog to eliminate in the same spot again. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a step back and remind yourself that consistency, patience, and positivity are key.

8. Try an Online Dog Potty Training Course

If you’ve tried everything and your Corgi is still having accidents or showing no progress, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer.

What’s the best online training course to potty train a French Bulldog?

Our 3 favorite online courses are:

1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course

This affordable online dog training course uses science-based and “fear-free” tactics to potty train your Corgi quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions, and it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”

More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.

3. DogAcademy Online Dog Training

DogAcademy’s “Housetraining Your Dog” Course This comprehensive online dog training provides you with the methods and techniques needed to successfully housetrain your dog to “go” outside. Emphasizing the importance of a regular schedule, this course ensures a structured and effective training regimen. You’ll also have access to ongoing support to answer any of your questions.

DogAcademy online dog training

Frequently Asked Questions About Housebreaking a Corgi

How do I know when my Corgi needs to go potty?

Signs that your Corgi needs to go potty include sniffing around, whining or barking, pacing, or scratching at the door. It is important to watch your Corgi for these signs so you can take them outside to go potty.

At what age should I begin potty training a Corgi puppy?

Corgi puppies can begin potty training as early as 8 weeks old. The earlier you begin, the better, as it is easier to establish good habits from the start.

How can I potty train an adult Corgi?

Potty training an adult Corgi is similar to training a puppy. You will need to establish a routine, watch for signs that they need to go outside and reward them for going potty outside.

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

The length of time it takes to potty train a Corgi puppy can vary, but typically takes several weeks to a few months. Consistency and patience are keys to successfully potty training your Corgi.

How often should I take my Corgi outside for potty breaks?

It is recommended to take your Corgi outside for potty breaks every 2-3 hours, as well as after meals, naps, and playtime.

How should I potty train my Corgi in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?

Potty training a Corgi in an apartment without a yard will require you to designate a specific potty spot inside or take your Corgi outside for every potty break. Using pee pads or litter boxes can also be helpful. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key in apartment potty training.

Master Potty Training Your Corgi

Potty training a Corgi can be a challenging task, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it can be achieved successfully. The key to successfully potty training your Corgi is to start early, establish a routine, reward good behavior, and remain consistent in your training methods. With the seven secrets to potty training a Corgi, you can help your furry friend learn where to go potty and avoid accidents in your home. Remember that every dog is different, and some may take longer to potty train than others. However, with the right approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, your Corgi can become a well-trained and well-behaved companion.

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