Why the crate is the key
The key to successful housetraining is using a crate (see the crate training exercise in your course). Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate helps your puppy control their bladder.
Puppies under four months have limited bladder capacity and control, and they need frequent bathroom breaks.
It's a common mistake to assume a puppy can hold it for eight hours during the day just because they can sleep through the night.
When puppies need to go
Puppies need to relieve themselves at predictable times: after waking, eating, playing, or chewing, and whenever they've been left alone for a while.
If your puppy starts sniffing and circling, they're likely about to go. Pay attention to these signs so you can quickly take them outside.