The Pros and Cons of Puppy Pads

What are puppy pads?

Why use puppy pads?

• Great for apartment dwellers. If you don’t have a backyard, a puppy pad gives your pup a designated spot to go without waiting for a walk. It’s especially helpful for high-rise living.
• A lifesaver for bad weather. No one wants to take a dog outdoors in the pouring rain or freezing cold and stand there waiting for the puppy to go. With a puppy pad, you can keep your pup (and yourself) warm and dry.
• Helpful for busy schedules. Whether you’re working or you can’t always get home on time, a puppy pad provides a safe alternative, so your pup doesn’t have to hold it for too long.
• Essential for young puppies. Tiny bladders mean frequent potty breaks. A puppy pad makes it easier to manage those accidents while reinforcing good habits.
• Perfect for senior or sick dogs. Older pups or dogs with health issues may struggle to hold their bladders. Puppy pads give them a comfortable, stress-free solution.

Types of puppy pads.

• Disposable pads. These single-use pads are super convenient.
• Reusable pads. If you prefer an eco-friendly option, reusable puppy pads are washable and durable. They’re great for long-term use and save money over time.
• Grass pads. These pads mimic real grass, helping your pup transition to going outside. Some are disposable, while others have replaceable turf for a more natural feel.
• Scented and attractant pads. Infused with pheromones or mild scents, these puppy pads encourage puppies to use them by appealing to their natural instincts.
• Charcoal or odor-control pads. If you’re sensitive to smells, these pads help neutralize odors while absorbing liquid efficiently.

Training your puppy to use a pad.

• Pick a designated spot. Keep the pad in a consistent location so your pup knows where to go. A quiet, low-traffic area works best.
• Introduce your pup to the pad. Let your puppy sniff and explore the pad before expecting them to use it. Give them lots of praise when they show interest.
• Stick to a schedule. Take your puppy to the pad after meals, naps and playtime. The more consistent you are, the faster they’ll learn.
• Use positive reinforcement. Every time your pup successfully uses the pad, reward them with a treat or praise. Happy pups learn faster!
• Keep it clean. Change the pad regularly to keep things fresh and inviting. A dirty pad may discourage use and lead to accidents elsewhere.
• Be patient. Accidents happen. If your puppy misses the pad, clean it up without scolding them. Instead, guide them back to the pad and encourage them to try again.

Pros and cons of puppy pads.

Pros:

• Easy cleanup and less mess.
• Great for apartments or homes without easy outdoor access.
• Ideal for puppies, senior dogs or those with health issues.
• Convenient for travel or emergency situations.

Cons:

• Some puppies become too reliant on them and resist outdoor training.
• Pads can become chew toys if left unattended.
• Frequent use of disposable pads can get expensive.
• Odors can linger if pads aren’t changed often enough.

Tips for transitioning from puppy pads to outdoor potty training.

• Move the pad closer to the door. This helps your pup associate the pad with eventually going outside.
• Take frequent outdoor breaks. Whenever possible, encourage your puppy to go outside instead of using the puppy pad.
• Use outdoor-friendly attractants. Special sprays mimic the scent of a pad on outdoor areas, making the transition easier.
• Put a pad outside. When you see your puppy approach a pad, scoop them up and move them to the outdoor location.
• Gradually reduce use of the pad. If you use multiple puppy pads throughout your home, start removing them one by one until only outdoor potty options remain.

Common puppy pad mistakes.

• Not changing pads often enough. A dirty puppy pad can lead to accidents elsewhere. Keep things clean!
• Moving the pad too frequently. This confuses your puppy. Keep it in one place until they’re ready to transition.
• Skipping rewards. Puppies thrive on positive reinforcement. Praise and treats make dog training more effective.
• Choosing the wrong size. A small puppy pad won’t cut it for large breeds. Make sure you pick the right size for your pup.

FAQs.

How long should I use puppy pads? 

Do puppy pads work for older dogs? 

Can I use puppy pads for a large breed puppy? 

How do I stop my puppy from chewing the pad? 

Are puppy pads bad for potty training?