Little Fig: Hi, Dr. Kevin. Thanks for having this little meeting with me. I have something very important to talk to you about, and I wanted some privacy. My pawrents know we’re meeting… they just don’t know why.
Dr. Kevin: Well, gosh. I’m all ears. My ears are admittedly a little smaller than yours, but I’m eager to hear what’s on your mind.
Little Fig: It has to do with… going potty.
Don’t laugh, okay?
Dr. Kevin: Little Fig, I would never laugh about potty. That’s one of the most important conversations a young puppy can have. Go ahead.
Little Fig: Sometimes my pawrents clap when I potty outside.
Sometimes they cheer.
Sometimes they say, “Good girl!”
One time my mom and dad actually danced.
Why are they so excited?
Dr. Kevin: Because every time you potty in the right place, you’re building a habit that will last your whole life.
Your pawrents aren’t celebrating the potty.
They’re celebrating you. They’re celebrating the freedom you’ll have. And, to be honest, they’re probably celebrating a little that their favorite antique rug remains intact.
Dogs learn beautifully through encouragement. Every kind word, every happy voice, every little celebration helps you understand, “Yes, that’s exactly what I hoped you’d do.”
That’s why I tell families to celebrate generously.
Puppies deserve applause.
Little Fig: It does feel really really good.
Like… I actually look forward to going potty.
Dr. Kevin: That’s exactly what we hope for. Now, Little Fig, can I ask you a very private question?
Little Fig: Uh-oh. Um…
Dr. Kevin: Have you ever gone potty inside the house, and maybe your pawrents didn’t applaud? Your answer is safe with me.
Little Fig: Well, um… maaaaybeeee.
Dr. Kevin: Little Fig, accidents are completely normal. Every puppy has them. They’re part of learning, not a sign that anyone is doing something wrong.
Little Fig: Really? That makes me feel better. My pawrents were really awesome. They gently picked me up and placed me where they wanted me to potty, which made me have to potty again. And then, they applauded!
Dr. Kevin: Wow. Good job for figuring that out so quickly!
When accidents happen, I tell pawrents to stay calm. Guide your puppy to the right place next time, and celebrate when they get it right. Puppies learn much faster through consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement than they ever do through a raised voice or scolding.
Little Fig: That makes me feel a lot better.
My pawrents also seem very interested in having me go potty on grass, which is a little tricky sometimes to find.
We walk around…
…and around…
…and around…
…until I find just the right spot.
Is grass really that important?
Dr. Kevin: That’s a wonderful question.
For many dogs, real grass simply feels natural. It smells familiar, encourages healthy sniffing behavior, and gives puppies a consistent place to build good potty habits. That little walk before you choose your spot isn’t wasted time, either. Dogs gather an incredible amount of information through scent, and finding the “right” place is all part of the process.
One of my favorite potty training tips is to let your puppy sniff. We sometimes get in a hurry, but sniffing helps many dogs settle, gather information, and confidently choose where they’d like to go.
For families living in cities or apartments, finding fresh grass isn’t always easy. Fortunately, our friends at Fresh Patch deliver real grass right to your home.
I think you use Fresh Patch, don’t you?
Little Fig: I do! I do!
Dr. Kevin: I thought so.
That consistency is incredibly helpful, especially while puppies are learning. When the surface feels familiar, it becomes much easier to build good habits, even when getting outside quickly isn’t always possible.
Little Fig: Oh!
I really like going potty.
Dr. Kevin: Yes…
I’ve seen a video or two.
Little Fig: That’s embarrassing.
Dr. Kevin: I say, potty with pride.
You’re doing great, Little Fig.
Little Fig: Thanks, Dr. Kevin!
Are you going to clap for me, too?
Just kidding.
I’m happy if I can help other little puppies out there. Solidarity.
Dr. Kevin: Goodness, Little Fig…
I had no idea you felt this strongly about potty training.
I’m so glad we’re meeting today.
Little Fig: One more question.
What about… kittens?
Where do they go?
Dr. Kevin: Kittens are fascinating.
Many are naturally drawn to loose, sandy textures, which is why litter training often comes so naturally. It’s an instinct they’ve carried with them for a very long time.
One of the best things you can do for a kitten is keep the litter box clean, quiet, and easy to reach. Most cats appreciate having a little privacy, and many behavior issues can be avoided simply by keeping the litter box fresh and inviting.
Some curious kittens even enjoy exploring patches of grass, especially when they’re safely spending time outdoors or investigating new textures.
When it comes to litter, one of the options we like is Tuft & Paw. They’ve created a thoughtful litter that’s comfortable for cats, easy to maintain, and designed with both pets and people in mind.
Little Fig: You have a lot of helpful potty tips, Dr. Kevin.
Dr. Kevin: It comes with the job.
I’m always here for you, Little Fig.
Give your pawrents a big hug from me, and thank you for asking such thoughtful questions today.
I have a feeling you’re going to help a lot of puppies…
…and kittens.
Little Fig: That makes me very happy.
Now, if you’ll excuse me…
I have a fresh patch of grass to find.
