[Cooper]

With Cooper, I would say things like "good boy" or "going peepee!" when he'd use the puppy pads. When we made the conversion to outside, he knew what the words meant and it was almost a Pavlovian response when he'd do his thing outdoors.

You might also try taking one of the pads outdoors prior to taking your puppy. Turn it upside down and rub it on the grass so the grass smells like the pads. Maybe that would help if the pup had the smell on the grass to associate with going potty.

Good luck!!

 

[Cooper]

You might, if you have the time, figure out how long it takes her to relieve herself after she eats or drinks then time it to where she's outdoors when the big moment comes.
It's possible she's testing you to see how dedicated you are to the outdoor peeing project as well. She'll figure it out eventually though, especially if you're not scared to make a fool of yourself in public!

 

[Cooper]

I also just remembered something from Cooper's manners class... the instructor told us a good rule of thumb is to take your puppy out according to their age. For instance, if your puppy is 3 months old, he or she can hold their bladder for about 3 hours. Five months, five hours. She said up until 9 months/hours, it is pretty much the "rule". Of course, Chis have a smaller bladder but Cooper can hold his for 9-10 hours if he must.