by Lorraine Houston, Speaking of Dogs
Your puppy is much like an infant and will relieve herself anywhere and anytime. Remember that having bowel and bladder movements are part of life. All living creatures have them. What we are teaching is the proper location for them, not the act of having them!
Just before a dog relieves herself, she will usually begin sniffing and/or circling. This is the time to take her outside and STAY with her. Be sure to praise the desired results. If there are none, go back in the house and confine puppy and offer outdoor relief in 10 minutes.
If the pup begins to eliminate in your presence, try and stop the action with your voice or clap your hands. As you are taking her outside follow up with the word "OUT" so you are directing her as to where elimination should take place.
Never, ever push or shove your puppy's face into excrement. Such actions are unkind, unnecessary and confusing!
Do not take good behavior for granted! Praise and/or give a treat for correct responses.