Pick a housebreaking spot

This is the first step! Pick a location in your house (or out in your yard) to introduce your pet to, preferably the first time you bring your puppy home from wherever you got him. Stake out the area, placing your dog's pee pad there for the duration of the housebreaking process. Take the puppy to the same spot every time a bathroom break is needed, and he'll begin to build associations, and will soon understand what the spot has been designated for.

Visit The Housebreaking Spot Frequently

Follow a schedule. The puppy will need to go every couple hours or so, and naturally also first thing in the morning and right before being put in for the night. If the bathroom breaks are too far apart, the dog is likely to end up making a mess, and it'll take him longer to understand the rules that you're trying to implement. Frequent bathroom breaks also help reinforce the puppy's associations with the housebreaking spot. Note: also keep an eye out for signs that the puppy has to go (like scratching at the door, whining, or pawing at the floor), and when you see them, take him to the housebreaking spot right away!

When Necessary, Put The Puppy In His Pen

If you're going to be out of the house for an extended amount of time, put your dog in his pen. He'll come to understand that he needs to respect the pen, which will keep him from dirtying it. Just be sure to let him out of the pen as soon as you come home, so that he can use the designated housebreaking spot to take care of his business right away.

When Neccessary, Reprimand Him Gently

There will of course be some accidents, and when they happen, be kind to your pup. He won't understand yelling or other forms of punishment – they'll just confuse and likely upset him. Instead, offer a firm 'no' when you catch your puppy in the act of going somewhere he shouldn't, and immediately take him outside.

Positive Reinforcement Is The Way To Go

When your puppy begins to make a habit of using the designated housebreaking spot, be sure to reward him! Lavish a lot of praise, and come out wielding treats. Pet your puppy, and voice your encouragement in a nurturing, cheerful manner. He'll be grateful, and so will you, once the housebreaking process is completed.