puppy pads
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Puppy Pads – Potty Training a Puppy

If you’re potty training a puppy or live in an apartment and can’t always take your pup out for a walk, then puppy pads are a great solution!

If you’re potty training a puppy or live in an apartment and can’t always take your pup out for a walk, then puppy pads are a great solution! Puppy pads are absorbent mats that you can place indoors for your dog to use as a toilet. They’re easy to use and clean up and can help keep your home clean and tidy. In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about puppy pads, including choosing the right size and absorbency, using them effectively, and cleaning them up.

So, what are you waiting for if you’re looking for a great selection of puppy pads? Check out our selection of puppy pads today!

How to Use Puppy Pads and Outdoor Potty Training Together?

Puppy pads and outdoor potty training are two popular methods for housebreaking a puppy. But what if you want to use both ways together? Is that possible?

Yes, it is! Puppy pads can be used with outdoor potty training to help your pup learn where he should go to the bathroom. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Start with puppy pads indoors. Place them in an area you want your pup to use as his “bathroom.” It could be in a laundry room, mud room, or a designated corner of your kitchen or living room.
  2. Take your pup to his “bathroom” area frequently after eating or drinking. Encourage him to use the puppy pads by praising him when he does his business on them.
  3. Once your pup consistently uses the puppy pads, start taking him outside to an area you’ve designated as his “potty spot“. It could be in your backyard, on a grassy patch in your neighborhood, or at a nearby dog park.
  4. Take him to his potty spot frequently, and encourage him to relieve himself there. Again, praise him when he does his business in the right spot.
  5. As your pup gets better at using the potty spot, you can start to phase out the puppy pads. Slowly move them closer and closer to the door until they’re outside. Once your pup consistently goes to the bathroom in the right spot, you can get rid of the puppy pads.

Puppy pads and outdoor potty training can be used together to help your pup learn where he should go to the bathroom. Just be sure to take him to his potty spot frequently, and praise him when he does his business in the right spot. With patience and consistency, your pup will get the hang of it in no time!

Amazon Basics Puppy Pads – 100 Count, 22×22 Inch

Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Training Pads – 100 Count, Leak-Proof Quick-Dry Design

Designed for both new pet owners and seasoned dog parents, Amazon Basics Puppy Pads offer reliable indoor relief and training support. Each pad features a 5-layer construction with a quick-dry top layer and a super-absorbent core that turns liquid into gel instantly—keeping your floors dry and protected. A built-in attractant helps guide puppies to the pad, making housebreaking easier and more consistent.

These regular-size pee pads measure 22 x 22 inches overall, with a 19 x 19 inch absorbent center and leak-resistant plastic lining on all sides. Perfect for puppies, aging dogs, or pets with limited outdoor access, these disposable dog training pads are ideal for apartment living, crate training, or travel use.

Pros

  • 5-layer design with quick-dry surface and gel core
  • Leakproof backing and border prevents messes
  • Built-in attractant supports successful potty training
  • Great for puppies, elderly dogs, or indoor use
  • Bulk pack of 100 for cost-effective training

Cons

  • Not ideal for large dog breeds due to size
  • Standard absorbency may not suit heavy-duty needs

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Do Puppy Pads Work?

If you’re considering using puppy pads, you may wonder if they work. The answer is that it depends on your pup. Some pups take to them immediately, while others may never use them consistently. Introducing them gradually and praising your pup when they use the pad is key. Most pups will learn to use puppy pads with patience and positive reinforcement.

Puppy Pads Brands

Here are some puppy pad brands that are available in the USA:

  • AmazonBasics
  • Arm & Hammer
  • Bark Potty
  • Bulldogology
  • Four Paws
  • Glad
  • Hartz
  • IRIS USA
  • Paw Inspired
  • Petphabet

Puppy pads are a great way to potty train your dog and keep your home clean. There are many different brands of puppy pads available, so it’s important to choose one that best suits your needs. Some things to consider when choosing a puppy pad include absorbency, size, and price. Puppy pads can be found at most pet stores or online.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a puppy pad is absorbency. You want to ensure that the pad can hold a lot of liquid, so your puppy doesn’t have accidents on your floor. Pads are specifically designed for large breeds or puppies that tend to go a lot. These pads will be more expensive, but they’ll save you a lot of cleanup in the long run.

Size is another important consideration when choosing a puppy pad. You want to ensure that the pad is big enough for your puppy to use comfortably but not so large that it’s difficult to move around. Puppy pads come in a variety of sizes, so you should be able to find one that’s just right for your pup.

Price is another factor to consider when choosing a puppy pad. Puppy pads can range in price from a few dollars to over $100. It’s important to balance quality and price when choosing a puppy pad. There are some great pads available at a reasonable price, but you don’t want to sacrifice quality to save a few dollars.

When potty training your puppy, it’s important to have patience and be consistent. Puppy pads can help make the process easier, but ultimately it’s up to you to ensure that your puppy learns where they are supposed to go. With time and patience, your puppy will be using the puppy pad like a pro in no time.

COCOYO 22″x22″ Dog Pee Pads – 50 Count

COCOYO 22x22 Super Absorbent Dog Training Pads – 50 Count

COCOYO Dog Training Pads offer a reliable solution for potty training puppies or managing accidents in senior or indoor dogs. These 22″x22″ pee pads are equipped with a 5-layer construction that locks in moisture, instantly converting urine into gel to prevent leaks and neutralize odor. Their durable polyethylene backing and sealed edges ensure that your floors stay dry and protected.

Whether you’re house-training a puppy, caring for a sick or aging pet, or simply looking for an absorbent pad for travel crates or home use, COCOYO provides both performance and value. Each pad is versatile enough to be used in kennels, crates, or as a standalone surface—making them a dependable part of your pet care routine.

Pros

  • 5-layer absorption system with gel core locks in moisture
  • Leak-proof backing and sealed edges protect flooring
  • Works for all life stages: puppies to senior dogs
  • Odor control helps maintain a clean-smelling home
  • Can be used in crates, carriers, or standalone

Cons

  • Not ideal for larger dog breeds or heavy urination
  • Pack includes fewer pads compared to some competitors

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Aldi Puppy Pads

Aldi Puppy Pads are a great way to potty train your puppy without making a mess in your home. They are leakproof and absorbent, making them ideal for use indoors. Aldi Puppy Pads are also affordable, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious pet owners.

Are puppy pads a good idea?

Yes, puppy pads can be a good idea in certain situations. For example, if you are potty training a new puppy and want to confine him to a specific area of your home, puppy pads can provide an easy and effective way to do this. Puppy pads can also be helpful for dogs who are incontinent or have other issues with eliminating in the house. However, you should be aware of some potential downsides to using puppy pads before deciding whether or not to use them. One potential downside is that some dogs may view the puppy pad as a potty spot and continue to eliminate it even when they are outside. This can be frustrating for owners trying to train their dogs to use the potty outdoors. Another potential downside is that puppy pads can be messy and smelly if they are not correctly cleaned and changed often enough. If you decide to use puppy pads, clean them regularly and change them usually to avoid these problems.

Wowflash 50 Ct Disposable Underpads 17″x13″

Wowflash 50 Pack Disposable Changing Pads for Baby, Puppy and Adult - Super Absorbent Leakproof Underpads

Wowflash Disposable Underpads are designed for ultimate convenience during baby diaper changes, puppy training, or adult care needs. These 17″x13″ pads feature a five-layer absorbent design that instantly transforms liquid into a gel to eliminate leaks and control odors. Whether used at home or while traveling, these quick-drying changing pads offer a hygienic, mess-free experience.

Soft, quilted non-woven tops make these underpads gentle on sensitive skin, while their compact size makes them easy to carry in a diaper bag or pet travel kit. The 50-count bulk pack is a budget-friendly choice for parents, pet owners, and caregivers looking for reliable protection during changes or emergencies.

Pros

  • 5-layer design with super absorbent polymer core
  • Leakproof backing keeps surfaces dry
  • Soft quilted top is gentle on sensitive skin
  • Compact and portable—ideal for travel use
  • Multi-use: baby changing, puppy pads, adult incontinence

Cons

  • Smaller in size, may not cover large areas
  • May require multiple pads for heavy wetters

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What age should you take puppy pads away?

You should take puppy pads away when your dog is six months old. This is because around this age. Dogs start to develop the ability to control their bladder and bowels. If you take the puppy pads away too early, your dog may have accidents in the house. On the other hand, if you leave the puppy pads too late, your dog may get used to using them and be reluctant to stop. The best thing to do is to talk to your veterinarian about when to take the puppy pads away.

Should you leave pee on a puppy pad?

No, you should not leave pee on a puppy pad. Pads are for puppies to use to relieve themselves, and if there is urine on the pad, it will attract more puppies to use it as an unsanitary toilet. If you have a puppy that is not housebroken, we recommend taking them outside frequently to relieve themselves so that they do not develop a habit of urinating indoors.

Are puppy pads bad for dogs?

There is debate over whether puppy pads are bad for dogs. Some people believe they can be helpful in potty training, while others think they can be confusing for dogs and cause them to urinate inside the home. If you are considering using puppy pads, you must talk to your veterinarian or a professional trainer to see if they are suitable for your dog.

Can you train a dog to use pee pads and go outside?

While some dogs may be able to learn to use both a pee pad and go outside, others may have trouble adapting to going back and forth between the two. It’s essential to figure out what method works best for your dog before beginning any training. If you’re unsure what will work best, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist. They will be able to help you create a training plan that is tailored to your dog’s individual needs.

Powools XL Puppy Pads 100-Pack: 34×28 Leakproof Dog Pee Pads

Powools 100-Pack X-Large 34x28 Blue Puppy Pads for Potty Training

Simplify puppy house training with the Powools 100-Pack X-Large Puppy Pads. These 34” x 28” dog pee pads are designed with built-in pheromones to attract your puppy to the designated potty spot, accelerating the training process and minimizing indoor accidents. The innovative 6-layer construction ensures superior absorbency, quickly turning liquid into gel to lock in moisture, control odors, and keep your floors clean and dry. This makes them essential potty training supplies for new pet parents.

Beyond puppy training, these versatile wee wee pads are ideal for dogs of all ages and needs, including adult and senior dogs facing incontinence or those confined indoors for extended periods. The leak-proof plastic backing provides reliable floor protection against stains and spills, while the quilted top layer efficiently contains liquids. This cost-effective bulk pack of large dog pads offers convenience for everyday use and during travel, also suitable for cats and other small animals.

Pros

  • Contains pheromones to aid effective puppy potty training.
  • Features a super absorbent 6-layer design for quick drying and leak prevention.
  • Equipped with a leakproof backing to safeguard floors from damage.
  • Suitable for puppies, adult dogs, senior dogs, and other small pets.
  • Offers a cost-efficient bulk pack with extra-large pad size.
  • Effectively controls pet odors.

Cons

  • The blue color might not appeal to all users.
  • Some pets may still miss the pad during initial training.

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Should I put a puppy pad in a crate at night?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as some puppies may need to use a puppy pad at night while others may not. If your puppy seems to need to use the bathroom more frequently at night, or if he is having accidents during the day, it may be necessary to place a puppy pad in his crate at night. If your puppy can hold his bladder through the night without accidents, you will likely not need to use a puppy pad. Ultimately, it is up to you and your puppy to decide if a puppy pad is necessary for his crate at night.

Do dogs know to pee on the pad?

Dogs usually learn to pee on pads by being taught by their owners. However, some dogs may have an instinct to use pads or other surfaces that resemble grass. If you’re potty training your dog and he seems to be having trouble understanding where he should go, you may want to try using pads in addition to taking him outside. Pads can provide a familiar surface for your dog to relieve himself on and can be especially helpful for dogs who live in apartments or other homes where going outside isn’t always an option.

How many times can a puppy pee on a pad?

A puppy can typically pee on a pad around four to six times daily. However, this will depend on the individual puppy and how often they need to relieve themselves. Some puppies may need to go more frequently, while others may be able to hold it for more extended periods. Ultimately, it is vital to keep an eye on your puppy and let them out to relieve themselves as often as needed.

Hartz XXL Dog Pads 20-Count: Mountain Fresh Scent, Leakproof

Hartz Home Protection XXL 20 Count Mountain Fresh Scented Dog Pads

Ensure a clean and fresh home environment with Hartz Home Protection XXL Scented Dog Pads. This 20-count pack of extra-large pee pads offers superior absorption and reliable leak protection for dogs of all life stages. Featuring innovative Flash-Dry Technology, these dog potty pads instantly convert liquid into a gel, effectively preventing messy leaks and keeping your floors dry. The built-in odor-eliminating capability, combined with a refreshing mountain fresh scent, neutralizes unpleasant smells, making them ideal house training pads and for managing adult dog incontinence.

The robust 6-layer construction of these pet training pads quickly locks away moisture, creating a smaller wet spot and allowing for potential multiple uses per pad, offering great value. Each pad is also designed with a leak-proof plastic backing to provide a strong barrier against spills, protecting various floor types. Consider these scented dog pads as part of your essential dog supplies, complementing other Hartz potty solutions like unscented pads and dog diapers for comprehensive pet care.

Pros

  • Utilizes Flash-Dry Technology to instantly gel liquids and prevent leaks.
  • Features an odor-eliminating mountain fresh scent for a fresher home.
  • Offers superior absorption with a 6-layer construction for multiple uses.
  • Includes a leak-proof plastic backing to safeguard all floor surfaces.
  • XXL size provides ample coverage for larger breeds or multiple uses.

Cons

  • The mountain fresh scent might be overpowering for some users or pets.
  • Comes in a 20-count pack, which might not be ideal for long-term use without reordering.

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Can dogs use pee pads forever?

No, dogs should not use pee pads forever. Pee pads are meant to be a training tool to help puppies and adult dogs learn where it is appropriate to go to the bathroom. Once your dog is trained, you should transition them to going outside or using a designated indoor bathroom area without the pee pad. Leaving your dog on pee pads forever can create problems such as your dog becoming reliant on the pads and not being able to hold them when they are not near one, or if you ever need to travel and cannot bring a pad with you. Additionally, some dogs may eat the pads, which can cause digestive issues. It is best to wean your dog off of pee pads once trained so that they do not become reliant on them.

How do I house train my 8 week old puppy?

The easiest way to house train your puppy is to take them outside often, especially after eating or drinking. Reward them with treats and praise when they go to the bathroom outside so that they learn that this is the desired behavior. Puppies usually need to go out every few hours, so be patient and consistent in your efforts. Eventually, they will learn to hold it for longer and be fully house trained.

About the Author

Teresa Skinner
Teresa Skinner shares expert tips, reviews, and advice on pet care and products at Best Family Pets, helping families raise happy, healthy pets. Teresa Skinner is a seasoned pet care expert with over a decade of hands-on experience in animal wellness and behavior. At Best Family Pets, she shares trusted tips, in-depth product reviews, and practical advice to help families raise happy, healthy pets. Teresa holds certifications in pet nutrition and behavior training, and is passionate about improving everyday pet care through real-world knowledge. For questions or collaborations, feel free to email Teresa.