Why Puppies Pee on Rugs (and How to Teach Them Better)

Today I caught one of the pups making a beeline for the bath mat like it was a VIP potty pad. He sniffed, spun in a perfect little circle, and—yep—squatted. Right there. On the fluffiest, most absorbent thing in the room. Again.

Here’s the truth: puppies don’t naturally know that rugs are not toilets. They go by feel, not logic. Soft, squishy textures—like bath mats, rugs, blankets, and even laundry piles—mimic the feeling of grass or soft dirt under their paws. To them, it feels right. They’re not being naughty. Their little paws are just communicating what their brain hasn’t quite learned yet: soft doesn’t always mean "go."

And guess what? They don’t magically understand that outside is the only place to potty. That’s a human rule. One they need our help to learn.

That’s where empowerment comes in. Teaching potty habits isn’t about shaming or scolding—it’s about guiding. Empowering our puppies means giving them consistent routines, clear communication, and positive reinforcement so they build confidence and make good choices. When they start to connect textures with rules—“I potty on grass, not grandma’s shag rug”—you can almost see the lightbulb go off. That’s empowerment in action.

We also have to expose them to a variety of surfaces. Gravel, mulch, concrete, wood chips, real grass, fake grass, and even snow if you’ve got it. The more they experience, the more flexible and reliable they become. That’s how we raise well-adjusted dogs who think before they squat.

So when your pup goes rogue on the rug, remember—it’s not a personal attack on your décor. It’s a teachable moment. And every one of those moments adds up to a dog who knows how to navigate the world with confidence.

Here’s to raising empowered puppies who know the difference between plush and potty.

Much Love,

Laura
Boise Doodle Co.