My 4-month-old Goldendoodle mini, Alfie, is struggling with consistency. He is holding his pee and poop for hours (8 hours) or even the entire day instead of going regularly when taken outside (taken every 3-4 hours). He doesn't seem to be in pain, but he just won't go on a schedule. Initially he was using the balcony grass that we have, not he has been peeing inside on potty pads. How can I encourage him to eliminate more regularly, and is it normal for a puppy his age to hold it this long?

It's completely understandable to feel puzzled by this — potty training a puppy is one of those things that sounds straightforward but can get complicated fast, especially when they start changing their habits. The good news is that what you're describing is pretty common with young puppies, and there's a lot you can do to help Alfie get back on track.

Is it normal for a 4-month-old to hold it this long?

A rough rule of thumb is that puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age — so at 4 months, roughly 4 hours is typical. Holding for 8+ hours is on the longer side for a puppy his age, and while some puppies do stretch it, doing it consistently is worth paying attention to. It's less likely to be a physical problem if he's eventually going and doesn't seem uncomfortable, but it's still something to keep an eye on.

Why might this be happening?

A few things commonly contribute to this kind of pattern in young puppies:

• Surface preference confusion. Alfie learned on balcony grass, then started using indoor potty pads. Puppies develop strong preferences for the surface they eliminate on, and switching back and forth can make them uncertain about where the "right" place is.
• Distraction outdoors. At 4 months, the world is very interesting. Some puppies are too stimulated outside to focus on going, then hold it until they're back somewhere familiar (like the pads).
• Inconsistent cues. Puppies do best with a very predictable routine — same spot, same words, same timing.

Some general steps that often help:

• Pick one primary elimination spot and stick with it. If the goal is outdoor elimination, try to phase out the indoor pads gradually, or keep them only as a backup.
• Go to the same outdoor spot every time. The smell of previous eliminations encourages puppies to go again in the same place.
• Give him time and stay calm. Stand quietly for 5–10 minutes. Excitement or hovering can distract him.
• Use a consistent cue word ("go potty," "do your business," etc.) right as he starts to go, so he begins to associate the word with the action.
• Reward immediately — within seconds of him finishing — with calm praise or a small treat.
• Limit freedom indoors until he's more consistent. A crate or playpen can help, since most puppies won't soil their sleeping space.

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When to see your vet:

Even though Alfie seems comfortable, it's worth scheduling a routine check-in with your vet if:

• He goes a full day without urinating (this can become a health concern)
• You notice straining, crying, or discomfort when he does go
• His urine looks cloudy, dark, or has an unusual smell
• He starts drinking much more or much less water than usual
• The pattern doesn't improve over the next 1–2 weeks

Since he's only 4 months old and still building habits, a vet visit sooner rather than later is a good idea just to rule out any physical reasons for the holding — and your vet may have additional tips tailored to Alfie specifically. You're clearly paying close attention to him, which is exactly what he needs right now! 🐾