A well behaved puppy ready for DTE's Chattanooga dog potty training - contact us to schedule a free consultation!
Dog Training Elite

Dog & Puppy Potty Training in Chattanooga, TN

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Our Potty Dog Training Could Help:
Reduce indoor accidents and messes
Establish a bathroom routine
Improve bladder control and timing
Address common potty training challenges
Strengthen communication between you and your dog
Prevent future potty training regressions

Because Life Really Is Better With a Trained Dog

Chattanooga Dog Potty Training

Let’s be honest—potty training can feel like a full-time job in those early days. Whether it’s a brand-new puppy or an older dog with some lingering habits, the struggle is real. But the good news? You don’t have to face it alone.

At Dog Training Elite, potty training is included in every one of our puppy training programs and can be incorporated into obedience programs for older dogs.

Our trainers meet you where you are and help your dog develop the awareness and habits that lead to fewer accidents. If you’re looking for puppy potty training in Chattanooga, TN, you’re in the right place.

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A golden retriever puppy laying on the floor - Dog Training Elite offers professional puppy potty training in Chattanooga, TN.

Potty Training Is Where Obedience Begins


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Potty training is the first step in developing a well-behaved dog. It’s not just about avoiding accidents; it’s about shaping a confident, well-mannered dog you can enjoy wherever you go.

When a mature, healthy dog understands when and where to go, they also begin to understand structure, boundaries, and how to follow through. Starting early is important, and the sooner puppies are potty broken, the easier it is for them to learn advanced obedience skills.

What If It’s an Older Dog?

Potty challenges don’t just affect puppies. Some older dogs never got the right start, and others may be adjusting to a new home or routine, or marking territory.

Before jumping into training, we always suggest ruling out health issues like:

  • Bladder stones
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Incontinence or age-related conditions

If your dog gets the all-clear from the vet, then it’s time to look at behavior. Our trainers will help you identify what’s going on and create a realistic plan to turn things around.

Many of our clients are amazed by how quickly their older dogs adapt once they understand the expectations. You’re not stuck—you just need the right tools and support.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • marsha smith
    Sep. 11, 2025
    My trainer Rod is so patient and calm. Listens to my dogs triggers and works on those. He even dressed like a UPS guy. We are still working but my dog has made huge improvements and I look forward to our group training
  • Andrew S
    May. 29, 2025
    Rod is awesome! So far I have worked with him on two dogs. From the start, he took the time to chat with me about different breeds and what would work best with my lifestyle. He even found a breeder and went out to temperament test the puppies himself. He picked out two that he thought would be a good fit and I ended up with both (he was spot on with his suggestions) I really appreciate how good Rod is at reading dogs. My two have very pretty different personalities, one’s super high-energy and curious, the other’s more mellow and a little shy. Rod adjusted his approach for each one and helped build up their confidence in ways that worked for them. He’s patient, knows his stuff, and really cares. If you’re looking for someone who’s great with dogs and easy to work with, definitely reach out to Rod.
  • Bekki Horack
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Elite is exactly as their name says! We worked with Rod to train our two puppies, Louise and Twig. They started around 4 and 5 mos old. Twig took to it easier than Louise. Rod was so kind and patient, training them (and us) how to work with each dogs' needs specifically. The office was great at keeping us on track with visits and scheduling. We communicated via text, my preferred method of communication. Thank you, Elite team!
  • Paula S.
    Feb. 12, 2024
    Rod takes special care and consideration in guidance and training of my service dog for PTSD. As a veteran I feel comfortable knowing that he understands my dog and our needs. Dog Training Elite was even able to help watch my dog for a special occasion while I was out of town and not yet able to travel with her. Dog training elite found and Matched my dog with me based on my desires and needs. My service dog was a special find as she is almost human like and truly a diamond in the "ruff". I would encourage anyone looking for a furry canine companion to work with Rod as my service animal doesn't pull or run while I'm trying to walk her ... this was worked out, easily in the first 3 lessons which really makes or break you in neighborhood reputation for having a friendly, welcoming, safe, dog. My companion is much more than that but without her refined behaviors she would just be a "dog". But she is much more than that because Rod and Dog Training Elite has brought out the best in her. Many people wonder where I found her and how she is so well behaved and I must in fact credit that to Dog Training Elite. I have very basic specifications I desired. Dog Training Elite Found even more than I asked for in specific characteristics. I am so happy with my *new family member* as she will be with me for years to come. I am proud to have her by my side a without her I would still be struggling with my PTSD alone. Please inquisitively ask yourself if you want a companion, or a dog. I have a new family member as a result of Dog Training Elite. ... I cannot thank Rod enough for the care he has put into, selecting my new family member.
  • Susan Jenkins
    Nov. 15, 2024
    We had such a great experience with Dog Training Elite! Rod was a fantastic trainer. He gave us great tips and was so helpful all along the way. He was flexible with our schedule, too. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. If you have a chance to work with Rod, you will be pleased with the results.
  • Autumn Bhushan TN-Chattanooga
    Oct. 2, 2024
    We've had an incredible experience training with Rod! Our 10-month-old pup was full of energy and quite a handful, but almost immediately after starting training, he seemed to understand exactly what was expected of him. The transformation was truly remarkable. I couldn’t believe how much progress he made in just a few sessions! If you're looking for a trainer who gets results, I wholeheartedly recommend Rod with Dog Training Elite!
  • Jackie Flores
    Jul. 23, 2024
    We are so glad we used Dog Training Elite for our rottie! He was a loving 1-year old, with more spirit than we could handle, and his size and lack of recall was getting to be dangerous, for him and us. Thankfully they curbed his stubbornness and now we can all exist safely and happily in the same house!
  • Paula Crowe
    Jul. 19, 2024
    I can’t say enough about Dog Training Elite! Just a few sessions in, and my 5 month old puppy is already fairly consistently obeying several commands. Rod’s expertise on training is impeccable. With each session, I am so amazed on how he can read, handle and train my pup. I must say, it takes much work on my part, but it’s extremely exciting to walk this journey with my puppy. I am so excited that we chose the life time package. I can truly see the value already. I love Rod’s heart for dogs and love that he is always eager to help tweak some of the commands in between sessions. Thank you Dog Training Elite for this already rewarding adventure!
  • Ashley McDowell
    Jul. 6, 2024
    They are wonderful got my dog where I wan5ed her to be still more work to be done but looking forward to continuing
  • Emily Hamby
    Jun. 5, 2024
    The absolute BEST of the best! We have been so blessed with such an amazing trainer. He and his wife have been by our sides the whole way even through some tough stuff and have been completely supportive through this process. Truly cannot say enough amazing things about them! ❤️
  • Michele Chandra
    Feb. 10, 2024
    I have loved my experience with dog training elite! Rod my trainer is very detailed and knowledgeable about all things dog training. He is patient and also willing to answer my questions when they come up. Scheduling is fast and easy and the improvement I have seen in my dog is amazing! I have told my friends about this company and have seen incredible results with my pup.
  • Madison Flowers
    Dec. 14, 2023
    My beautiful baby girl, Byrdie Mae, has been training with Rod for the past 8 months. Rod has taught Byrdie as well as me so much throughout this program. She definitely loves her Uncle Rod for sure! Byrdie put up challenges but we all took them on together. This training truly makes everyone a family and we all want nothing more than for her to succeed. I am forever grateful and recommend this program to everyone!
  • Jan Hardy Fanslow
    Oct. 22, 2023
    My job has been very difficult to live with he misbehaves he pulls on his leash he tears up things in the house and going on a walk with him it’s like a race we started working with Rod and it’s as if I have a new dog he is so well behaved he knows the rules and the boundaries and the best part is he’s happier so we are so grateful for all the lessons that haveAllowed both of us such freedom to enjoy one another I encourage you to take advantage of these services
  • Hannah hogan
    Dec. 21, 2022
    Dog Training Elite has been training my son's dog to be a service dog since we got her when she was 2 months old. Rod is so patient with our dog, very kind and communicates with you all of the time. He is very interested in how well your dog is doing with the training on days we do not meet. He is a very professional dog trainer, the best of the best. He is ALWAYS HIGHLY RECOMMENDEDABLE as he cares so much about your pet/loved one. You won't regret using him. We are VERY thankful for the work and time he gives to us for our dog.
  • Kelley Rosequist
    May. 17, 2022
    Rod is a fantastic dog trainer and very passionate about the work he does!
  • Kyle Christie
    May. 20, 2022
    This is a veteran owned business and Rod who is the owner takes an extremely hard working, professional (yet personable) approach to the business. He's passionate about community work and he truly cares about getting results when it comes to building your confidence and your relationship with your dog. Highly recommend!
  • Audra Larkins
    Mar. 28, 2022
    Rod is a natural trainer. The passion he has for helping dogs and their owners is obvious. He worked with us for a couple of weeks and the improvement in our dog’s manners and behavior was amazing. I’d highly recommend Rod to anyone as he is clearly the best dog trainer in Chatanooga!
  • Pat Lewis
    Mar. 26, 2022
    Dog training elite has helped me learn to better understand and control my dog Sam. She is strong, strong willed and wasn’t socialized properly. With the help of DTE Sam (and I) have learned to heel well, sit, go to “place” when others come to visit instead of jumping on them in the doorway. I no longer worry that I won’t be able to control my strong dog on our daily walk. Rodney Westmoreland in Chattanooga spent time getting to know Sam and her personal needs, as well as mine. He is encouraging and patient and reminded me that I am the Alpha dog, not Sam. Learning the “off” command has saved many of my friends and family from Sam’s excited (annoying) “hug” upon entering my home. I highly recommend DTE for your dog training needs. – Pat Lewis 3/26/2022

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

What Works: Potty Training Tips from Real Trainers

Have you ever wondered how to potty train a puppy? Here are a few of the tried-and-true techniques our trainers use every day to set dogs up for success (and that you can start using right now):

Dogs thrive on routine. Take your puppy to the same quiet area each time they go out, and keep them on a leash to help them focus on the task at hand.

Trainer Tip: Use the same door and same path each time. It helps your pup learn the rhythm and makes success more predictable.

Puppies need frequent breaks. As a general guideline, take them out:

  • After naps
  • After play or excitement
  • Immediately after eating or drinking

The goal is to stay ahead of the accident—not scramble to clean it up after.

Many families tell us that crate training changed everything. And they’re not wrong.

Dogs instinctively avoid going to the bathroom where they sleep—but only if the crate is the right size. Too big, and they might go in one corner and sleep in another. Just right, and they’ll learn to hold it. Always take your dog outside immediately after letting them out of the crate to reinforce good habits.

Pick a simple phrase like “go potty” or “do your business,” and say it when your dog is going. Eventually, they’ll associate the phrase with the action.

This might feel like a small thing now, but it will be helpful in the long term, especially for service dogs. Many of our service dog families tell us that teaching this cue makes things much smoother on busy mornings, while traveling, or before entering public spaces.

We don’t mean “good dog” and a pat. We mean celebrate your puppy’s success like you just won the lottery. Clap, cheer, and praise enthusiastically, especially in the early days.

Positive feedback builds the confidence your pup needs to repeat the behavior again and again.

Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, whining, or suddenly going quiet. These are your cues to grab that leash and head out fast.

Interrupting the behavior early is one of the most effective ways to build new habits and reduce (and eventually eliminate) indoor accidents.

A picture with a Dog Training Elite trainer, dog, and owner working on potty training skills - contact us for your Chattanooga dog potty training today.

How We Help at Dog Training Elite

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We’ve worked with thousands of dogs, and no two are exactly alike. That’s why we build a training plan around your dog’s unique needs and your family’s routine.

Whether your dog is still in the puppy stage or just needs a little help breaking some old habits, we’ve got you covered with:

  • Behavior-Focused Solutions: Anxiety, confusion, and attention-seeking can cause potty issues. We help your dog feel secure and confident.
  • Routine & Structure: Dogs thrive with boundaries. Obedience training provides the daily framework that supports potty training success.
  • Custom Crate & Leash Integration: We’ll help you determine the proper crate size, potty schedule, and leash process just right for your dog.
  • Ongoing Owner Support: We don’t just train your dog—we teach you how to reinforce progress and avoid setbacks. You’ll know what signs to look for and how to support your dog long-term.

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An owner and her puppy - contact Dog Training Elite today to help build better habits through our dog and puppy potty training in Chattanooga, TN.

Your Puppy Potty Trainer in Chattanooga, TN

Let’s Build Better Habits, Together

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You don’t need to stress over potty training or wonder if your dog will ever “get it.” With a little structure and a lot of support, your dog will learn where and when they should go.

Whether you're working with a puppy or older dog, our Chattanooga dog potty training support is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our amazing trainers at Dog Training Elite. Many families tell us it’s the best decision they've ever made.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Chattanooga.
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