Train Your Dog to Use Potty Pads Easily and Efficiently- Tips and Tricks to Get Started

BY MOLLY | EVERYTHINGSHIHTZU.COM | July 10, 2023
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As a proud and happy pet parent to several dogs over the years, I am well aware of the importance of training our dogs to do their potty breaks outside while on our daily scheduled walks.

But haven't we all had days when taking our pups out for their daily "nature calls" has us hoping our four-legged companions can hold it until it stops raining or snowing, or we simply don't have the time at that moment when they really need to go?

Luckily, there are doggy potty pads.

Dog potty pads are thin, disposable sheets of absorbent material that can be used to line the bottom of a dog's kennel or create an indoor restroom area for your pup. They're designed to quickly soak up urine and other fluids, trapping them away from your floors and carpets and keeping any accidents contained.

Doggy potty pads simply provide the convenience of an indoor bathroom option for dogs while still keeping your home clean and free from odors.

Now, doesn't that sound like a great alternative?

If you are thinking about teaching your dog to use potty pads, by following these four simple steps below, you can train your pup to use potty pads in no time.

4 Steps to Teaching Your Dog To Use Potty Pads

Pee pad training

The process of teaching your dog to eliminate on pee pads is very similar to that of teaching them to eliminate outside.

What you'll need:

  • Potty pads (of course)
  • Loads of treats
  • Time, attention, and patience

Step 1, select the right size and type of potty pad for your pup.

You will need to choose a pad with enough surface area and absorbency for your pet's needs. Then, place the pad in an area that is easily accessible for your pup.

Step 2, condition your pup to use the potty pad.

To do this, you should have treats and other rewards handy when introducing them to their new bathroom spot.

When you notice your dog displaying signs that they need to eliminate, guide them to the potty pad.

Establish a cue or command: Use a specific cue or command, such as "go potty" or "use the pad," when you want your dog to use the potty pad. Consistently use this cue every time you take them to the potty pad, which helps them associate the command with the desired behavior.

You may also want to place some of your pup's favorite toys or items in the area to help encourage them to check out their new space more quickly.

Step 3, be consistent and keep your pup's potty area clean.

You should always clean up any messes as soon as you spot them so that your pup does not associate the pad with a bad smell or mess. Additionally, make sure to replace the pads regularly to ensure they are always fresh and dry for your pup.

Step 4, practice regular potty breaks.

You should still make sure to take your pup outside for their regular potty breaks as often as you can—even if they've already gone on their potty pad! Doing this will help reinforce the importance of going out while also encouraging them to use the pads when needed.

Following these steps will help you to successfully train your pup to use potty pads with ease. 

Just keep in mind that consistency is key, and like any type of training, it may take some time for your pup to get used to their new bathroom routine. 

Now that you know the steps to training your dog to use potty pads, let's take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of using potty pads.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Puppy Potty Pads

Potty pads are a great way to train your pup and provide them with an easy, convenient method of relieving themselves, especially in a pinch.

But before investing in these helpful tools, consider the advantages and disadvantages of using potty pads in your home.

The Advantages of Puppy Potty Pads:

  • Convenience for pet owners: potty pads provide your pup with an easy way to relieve themselves when they can't go outside. This is especially helpful for those living in apartments or other tight spaces where going outside isn't always possible.
  • Time-saver: Potty training with potty pads can save time since there is no need to take the dog out first thing in the morning or late at night before bed.
  • Odor control: Doggy potty pads help control odors by quickly soaking up urine and other fluids, trapping them away from your floors and carpets, and keeping any accidents contained.
  • Portability & Versatility: Potty pads come in a variety of sizes, making it easy to find one that will fit in any space, including crates, kennels, or anywhere else indoors where they prefer to go when nature calls!
  • Potty pads are easy to clean up. You can simply throw them away and replace them when necessary.

The Disadvantages of Puppy Potty Pads:

  • Cost: While disposable potty pads are much cheaper than carpet cleaning services if your pup has an accident on the floor or furniture, the cost of purchasing disposable potty pads can add up over time.
  • Bacterial contamination: Potty pads can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not changed out regularly and can lead to infections as well as other illnesses in your pup.
  • Limited mobility: While potty pads are great for puppies or small dogs with limited mobility, larger dogs need more room to move around when going to the bathroom and may find it difficult to maneuver inside a small kennel or crate.

Tips on What Not To Do When Training Your Dog to Use Potty Pads

Potty pads can be a great way to provide your pup with an easy, convenient method of relieving themselves when they can't go outside. However, it's important to know what not to do when training your dog to use potty pads so that you don't end up doing more harm than good. Here are some tips on what not to do:

  • Don't punish your pup if they have an accident; this will only make them afraid and reluctant in the future.
  • Don't leave the potty pad out for too long; replace it regularly, as bacteria can build up quickly if left unattended.
  • Don't stop taking your pup outside for regular potty breaks; the goal is for them to learn how to use both methods effectively!
  • Don't forget about treats and positive reinforcement; these are essential in helping motivate and reward your pup during their training process!

In summary, training your pup to use potty pads is a great way to provide them with an easy, convenient method of relieving themselves when they can't go outside.

With the right size and type of pad as well as plenty of treats and patience, you should be able to successfully train your pup in no time.

While there are many advantages, such as convenience for pet parents and odor control, it's important to remember the potential disadvantages, like cost or bacterial contamination from using these disposable products too often.

Ultimately, if used responsibly, puppy potty pads can be a great solution for those times when taking your pup out isn't possible.