How Long Can Small Dogs Hold Their Pee? A Guide for Loving Pet Parents

The Great Puppy Bladder Mystery Solved!

If you’ve ever watched your tiny Cavapoo puppy do the “pee-pee dance” (you know, the frantic circling, the sudden sniffing, the oh-no look in their eyes), you’ve probably wondered: How long can small dogs hold their pee?

As a breeder at Jones Farm Puppies, we often get this question, especially from new puppy parents. And we get it! No one wants accidents on the rug (or worse, a stressed-out pup). The good news? You and your small dog can live in perfect potty harmony with a bit of understanding and a solid routine.

So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of tiny dog bladders, bust some myths, and set you up for success!

Small Dogs vs. Big Dogs: The Bladder Battle

First things first! Size matters when it comes to bladder control. Smaller breeds, like our beloved Cavapoos, have teeny-tiny bladders compared to a Labrador. That means they physically can’t hold it as long as a bigger dog.

General Rule of Thumb:

• Puppies (8-12 weeks): 1 hour per month of age (so a 2-month-old pup can hold it ~2 hours).
• Adult small dogs (1 year+): 4-6 hours max (ideally, they should go out every 3-4 hours).

Of course, every dog is unique! Some can hold it longer, while others need more frequent breaks. The key is knowing your pup’s signals and setting them up for success.

Factors That Affect How Long Your Dog Can “Hold It”

Several things influence your small dog’s bladder stamina:

1. Age

• Puppies: Tiny bladders + high metabolism = lots of potty breaks.
• Adults: Better control, but still need regular outings.
• Seniors may need more frequent trips due to weaker muscles or health issues.

2. Diet & Hydration

• Wet food or extra water = more pee.
• Scheduled feeding helps regulate potty times.

3. Activity Level

Playtime, walks, and excitement can trigger the need to go, so post-play potty breaks are necessary!

4. Health & Training

• UTIs, diabetes, or anxiety can increase urgency.
• Well-trained dogs may “hold it” longer because they know relief is coming.

Potty Training Tips for Small Breeds

Since small dogs can’t hold it as long, consistency is everything! Here’s how to make potty training a breeze:

✅ Stick to a schedule – Take them out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bed.

✅ Praise & rewards – Celebrate every success with treats and happy words!

✅ Watch for signals – Sniffing, circling, or sudden restlessness usually mean “I gotta go!”

✅ Use crate training wisely – Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping space, so an appropriately sized crate can help.

Pro Tip: If accidents happen, stay patient! Never scold! Just clean thoroughly (enzyme cleaners work best) and try again.

What About Overnight? Can Small Dogs Hold It While Sleeping?

Good news! Most healthy adult small dogs can sleep through the night without a potty break (about 6-8 hours). Puppies may need a late-night bathroom run before bed and an early morning trip when you wake up.

If your adult dog suddenly cannot sleep through the night, check with your vet. It could signal a health issue.

FAQ: Your Top Small Dog Potty Questions, Answered!

My Cavapoo is 6 months old—how often should they go out?
At this age, they can usually hold it for 4-5 hours during the day. To prevent accidents, stick to a schedule of every 3-4 hours.

Can small dogs be trained to use pee pads?
Absolutely! Many small dog owners use pads for convenience, especially in bad weather. Just be consistent—use pads or outdoor pottying to avoid confusion.

Why does my dog pee so much on walks?
Dogs “mark” their territory with small amounts of pee. It’s normal! If it’s excessive, though, a vet check might be wise.

How can I tell if my dog has a UTI?
Frequent urination, straining, blood in urine, or accidents in a previously house-trained dog are red flags. See your vet if you suspect a UTI.

My senior dog is having accidents—what should I do?
Older dogs may need more frequent breaks or medical support. A vet visit can rule out issues like arthritis or kidney problems.

Final Thoughts: Patience & Love Go a Long Way!

Small dogs may have small bladders, but they have huge hearts. With the proper routine, potty training is manageable. At Jones Farm Puppies, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Got more questions? Contact us—we’d love to chat! And if you’re looking for a happy, healthy Cavapoo to join your family (and eventually master potty training), check out our available puppies.

Here’s to fewer accidents and more tail wags!