Puppy training pads are large, absorbent mats that help you keep your floors clean. They have a unique core and a leak-proof layer that draws fluids. Place the pad in a designated area, and every time you think your dog is about to pee, say the magic word of your choice (pee or potty, for example) and lead them to the spot.
Convenient
While every dog has different preferences and timelines for becoming housebroken, consistency and patience will help set your pup up for success. Puppy pads at Chewy.com provide a convenient and reliable option to get your puppy started on the right track. To set up your puppy’s pad:
- Choose a designated spot where you want it.
- Place the pad there and use a scent attractant to encourage your dog to go on it.
- Reward them with a treat or praise every time they use it so that they associate the area with that behavior and can continue doing so on their own.
Once your dog consistently uses the training pad, start reducing the number of pads in the room to help them learn they need to go outside to do their business. This is a good idea for older dogs or those with difficulty going outdoors due to weather conditions. Depending on the situation, you can also train your puppy to use the pads as their bed for naptime. This can be helpful if you have a hard time getting them to leave their crate or exercise pen, and it helps prevent them from going inside where they sleep, which can lead to messy and smelly accidents. Be sure to avoid allowing them to use the pads as a sleeping area, as it will confuse their understanding of what they should do on the pad and may delay their housebreaking progress.
Easy to Clean
A puppy pad is an easy way to clean up your pup’s bathroom accidents. They are usually covered in waterproof and odor-reducing layers that allow you to quickly remove the urine, leaving the mat intact. Most disposable puppy pads are biodegradable and come in different sizes to suit your pet’s needs. An easy-to-clean puppy potty pad is a great idea when you’re crate training your dog or have a young puppy that can’t entirely control their bladder yet. They’re also helpful if your dog has mobility issues and can’t make it outside regularly. When using puppy pads, be sure to use them consistently and in the same area, as your pet will learn that this is where they should go. When your dog pees on the pad, consistently reward them, as this will help to reinforce the behavior. It will also help you track their progress as they get used to using the pad. Be sure to change the pad regularly, as it must be soiled to work correctly.
Environmentally Friendly
Puppy training pads are a safe and environmentally friendly way to train your pet. Using a pee pad tray means you don’t have to take your puppy outside, where they may be exposed to bacteria and viruses. Instead, you can replace the pad when it becomes soiled. This saves you time and money and keeps your puppy healthy. The best puppy pads have a highly absorbent top layer, an odor-reducing middle layer, and a waterproof lining. This ensures that your dog will not spread urine around the house, which can lead to stains on carpet or furniture. It also makes cleanup much faster and easier. You can even find washable puppy pads, which are more eco-friendly than disposable ones. When paired with other housebreaking methods, puppy training pads can be a great way to teach your pet to eliminate the outdoors. They’re beneficial for dogs who can’t be eliminated outdoors, such as senior or sick puppies, tiny dogs, or those in areas where the weather is too hot, cold, or snowy to go outside. When using a puppy pad, it’s essential to use positive reinforcement and stick to a schedule. This includes taking your dog to the pad 15 minutes after every meal, as soon as they wake up from playing or a snooze, and before they go into their crate for sleep at night.
Affordable
Puppy training pads are a cost-effective solution for housebreaking a new puppy. They can also be a helpful backup for dogs with mobility or bladder issues that make frequent trips outside impractical. They can even save you money on costly veterinary bills when your pup needs immediate relief! When shopping for pee pads, look for the right size for your dog. Some manufacturers will state the liquid cup capacity of each pad, while others recommend guidelines based on your pet’s weight. If you have a large dog, consider a high-capacity pad that can hold multiple urinations before needing to be replaced. If you opt for a disposable product, choose one without harsh chemicals or fragrances. These can be abrasive to the paws and skin of your dog, which is especially sensitive during an elimination.
Additionally, avoid scolding your pup for soiling the pad, as this can confuse and scare her into thinking she’s in the wrong place. Remember that, just like humans, puppies need time to get used to eliminating on a pad. Stick with it and keep your training pad station indoors for about two weeks. You can potty train your puppy quickly with consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement! However, remember that some dogs may continue to eliminate on other surfaces. If this happens, place your pad in a low-traffic area far from your dog’s bed or food and water bowls.
