This apparently is the number one cause for dogs being taken to dog rescue charities. It is often frustrating and often professional dog walkers such as London Dog Walking are often asked to help, so a key part of puppy care. Studies have shown that the best way to toilet train is to use a crate. Most breeders will {use a cagehave used one}, and will often sell on the crate, as the puppy is used to it. The cage method is based on the understanding that dogs do not like to mess their beds and in a crate would have no choice but to sleep in the mess. Whilst in these confines the puppy will try to manage their bladder. Young pups from 9 weeks or so should last around 8 hours. During toilet training, leave the puppy inside the crate whenever he cannot be supervised, whilst you are say cleaning. Just before to putting him into the cage or taking him out of the cage, take him outside so he can do his business. There should never be any food or water in the cage, just a blanket and maybe a chew toy to occupy his time. As time goes by and the puppy performs better, you can leave him more and more out of the cage.
The crate needs to be right size, enough floor space for him to lie down. But not so large he could urinate in a corner. The cage is essential for the dogs whole life, so to avoid replacing crated as he grows, buy one big enough for his full grown size, with a partition that you can move when needed.
The two alternatives to crate potty training a puppy are constant supervision, not many people have the time for this. To do this, you need to be with the puppy constantly, so you can be ready when you see his pre-potty pattern, such as clawing the floor. Then taking him directly to his potty area, then bring him straight back, having him praise and verbal clues such as “good dog”. The pup needs to realise why he was taken outside was for the toilet, nothing else, do not confuse him.

The other alternative to toilet training is put down papers or pre-treated pads, encouraging them to use these papers, for practical reasons positioned in the utility room or bathroom. The papers have chemicals to draw the pup. When you catch with their pre- potty pattern, pick them up quietly and take them to the papers. Praise them if they do the business. The problem with this method, is you have to transition them to doing this outside, by moving the papers closer to the door.
Potty timing, normally, pups need to go out, soon after waking and around 40 mins after feeding.
Occasionally puppies will spontaneously urinate when scared or excited, sometimes known as submissive urination. Do not discipline them for this. If the puppy is liable to this, go for a walk, before any excitement, like friends coming. Or if visiting, go for a walk, just before, or when you arrive. The puppy will normally grow out it after 4-8 months.
To strengthen the toilet training, as in dog training, you need to use verbal clues. Great ones are simple and distinctive. Everybody in the family or in contact with the dog, such as your dog walkers and the pet sitter need to use the same words. One or a maximum of two words.
Outside: For going outside, to go to the toilet. Use a different word such as “play” if its for more of a fun activity, though he may eliminate when he is there.
Potty: Do the business.
Good Dog: For any praise to give him.
No: When they are doing something wrong, such as going in the wrong area, or inside.
There are probably two rules to follow:
1. Praise success always.
2. Do not punish the puppy, if you do not catch him in the act of doing something wrong. The puppy will have no idea why you are punishing him.

If you catch him urinating inside, carry him to the place, will often stop him, as well as reinforcing what he should be doing.