The formula for how often a puppy needs a potty break is one hour per month of age plus one (i.e. a three-month old puppy will need to go out every four hours). At 6-8 weeks of age, he'll need to go out every one to three hours. That's why it's best to bring your new puppy home when you have a couple of days free to establish the routine of where you wish him to relieve himself. That being said, the best way to figure out what your particular puppy needs is to keep a journal of how often he goes during the first two days. His schedule will cue you as to what your schedule for taking him out should be.
Puppies will need to be taken out after eating, playing, training, being left alone and before bedtime. Scheduling your puppy's feedings and allowing him 20-30 minutes to eat before taking up his food will send him the message that he eats when you put his food down. The reason this is important is because he will have to eliminate shortly after he eats, you will be able to get him outside in a timely manner and you will reinforce this routine.
Puppies can generally "hold it" overnight because they're not eating, drinking or being active but that doesn't mean they can "hold it" while you're at work or away for longer periods of time. Housebreaking is a quicker, more reliable process if the puppy gets a mid-day break (or more depending on age/needs).
I am happy to be able to provide these breaks for puppy parents. Mid-day visits are important not just for housebreaking but also provides the exercise and stimulation that puppies need.
