Potty training your puppy

Boerboels are intelligent, protective, and large-breed dogs, which means potty training them requires a little extra structure and consistency due to their size, strength, and strong-willed nature.

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🐾 Potty Training a South African Boerboel Puppy

🕒 1. Set a Consistent Routine

Boerboel puppies have big bodies but not big bladders especially under 6 months old.

Take your puppy outside:

First thing in the morning

After every meal or nap

After playtime

Before bed

Every 1.5–2 hours for the first couple months

👉 By 4 months old, most Boerboel pups can hold it for 3–4 hours; by 6 months, about 5–6 hours.

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📍2. Choose One Potty Spot

Take your Boerboel to the same outdoor area every time.

Use a command like:

> “Go potty” or “Hurry up”

(Keep your tone calm and consistent.)

Their keen sense of smell helps them associate that area with “bathroom time.”

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🎁 3. Reward Immediately

Boerboels respond best to positive reinforcement, not harsh corrections.

The moment your puppy finishes, praise and reward with high-value treats or play.

> “Good potty, yes!” in a happy tone.

Don’t wait to go inside reward on the spot so they make the connection.

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🏠 4. Supervise Indoors Closely

Large-breed pups can have big accidents fast.

Keep your puppy in the same room or tethered to you during free time.

Watch for signs:

Sniffing or circling

Whining or suddenly stopping play

If you can’t watch, crate or confine them.

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🏕️ 5. Crate Training Works Wonders

Boerboels are naturally clean and protective crates tap into that instinct.

Use a sturdy crate that fits their current size (with divider panels so it grows with them).

Never use the crate as punishment; it should feel safe.

Take them outside immediately when you let them out.

🕐 Schedule for a young Boerboel (8–12 weeks):

Time Action

6 AM Go potty

After breakfast Go potty

Mid-morning Go potty

After lunch Go potty

After nap/play Go potty

After dinner Go potty

Before bed Go potty

Once overnight (if under 12 wks) Go potty

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🚫 6. Handle Accidents Calmly

If caught mid-accident: calmly say “Outside!”, scoop them up, and take them out.

Never yell or rub their nose in it — Boerboels are sensitive to tone and may shut down.

Clean thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle) to remove scent markers.

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💡 7. Feeding & Water Schedule

Feed on a consistent schedule (2–3 meals per day).

Pick up water 1.5–2 hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime accidents.

Always take them outside after eating or drinking.

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⚡ 8. Be Firm but Kind

Boerboels are smart and can test boundaries.

Stay calm, assertive, and consistent.

Don’t skip potty breaks even if it seems they “just went.”

With steady training, most Boerboels are fully housebroken by 5–6 months.

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✅ Quick Recap

Routine = reliability

Praise = motivation

Supervision = prevention

Crate = structure

Patience = success

Don't forget to have FUN with your new puppy!!!