How to Stop a Puppy from Chewing Up Pee Pads: 8 Effective Tips

So, how do you stop a puppy from chewing up pee pads? Here's how!

“Puppies need clear rules and boundaries,” says expert dog trainer Cesar Millan. More specifically, by redirecting their focus, reinforcing positive behavior, and offering proper chew alternatives, “they learn what’s okay to chew and what’s not. [1]”

And honestly, I’ve been there...Thinking pee pads were the boss, only to see them shredded and ripped to smithereens!

But with these steps, I’ve not only curbed the chewing but also killed it completely— for good! 

In this guide, I’ll show you these 7 foolproof strategies I used to break my pup's habit so you can copy me like a cuddly chimpanzee!

Ready to kill a nasty ole habit? OK, let’s go!

Special announcement: If you're obsessed about how do puppy pads work, check out LUFTPETS' simple, easy-to-use pads and tips ASAP!

Key Takeaways

• Secure the pad: Use adhesive strips and holders to prevent your puppy from easily pulling up and chewing the edges of the pad.

• Provide alternatives: Keep your puppy occupied with appropriate chew toys and mentally stimulating activities to divert their attention from the pads.

• Use positive reinforcement: Consistently redirect your puppy’s focus when they chew the pad and reward them for using it correctly.

How to Stop Puppy From Chewing Pee Pads | 8 Foolproof ways!

Once an unwanted behavior takes hold, stop it ASAP!

There are lots of things we can do as pet parents to guide our fur babies and teach them how to behave. Here are some of the best ways to stop your dog from chewing their pee pads:

1. Secure the Edges of the Pee Pad

If you're wondering how to stop your puppy from tearing up potty pads, the first step is eliminating easy-to-chew edges.

Anything obvious and chewable, like labels, strings, or tassels, will attract your pup. That's why clothes, blankets, and furniture often fall victim to their sharp little teeth.

Pee pads are no different. To prevent this, place the pads on a hard surface for easy cleaning and secure them with dog-safe adhesive strips.

This helps keep the edges flat and stops them from becoming a tempting chew toy for your pup.

P.S. If you're puzzled about, are puppy pads good or bad, it all depends! Check out washable dog pee pads for trusted pads today!

2. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

A great way to stop your puppy from chewing pee pads is to offer plenty of appropriate chew toys.

Puppies often chew out of boredom, so giving them toys or long-lasting treats can keep them engaged in more positive behavior.

Curious why puppies tear up pee pads? Often, it's because they love exploring new textures with their mouths!

Chewing on a pee pad can lead to ingesting the material, which may result in a costly trip to the vet.

Opt for puppy-proof toys like Kong, where you can hide treats inside, offering hours of fun and stimulation.

3. Positive Reinforcement Training

Dogs respond best to repetition and positive reinforcement.

Shouting at or hitting your dog is not only unacceptable and abusive but also ineffective for training.

Instead, focus on patience, kind words, and lots of affection.

Occasional treats thrown in for good behavior can reinforce the idea of what’s acceptable.

4. Supervise and Redirect

Puppies can get into mischief quickly, so it’s essential to supervise them closely, especially in the early stages.

If you catch your pup chewing something, they shouldn’t redirect them immediately. Use a verbal command, a toy, or physically move them away from the temptation.

Once distracted, offer a reward to reinforce positive behavior. Repeating this process teaches them to associate good actions with a reward.

5. Introduce the "Leave it" Command

Dogs’ ears are highly sensitive, and verbal commands can be incredibly effective. Simple phrases like "leave it" or "no" are useful for preventing unwanted behaviors like chewing.

The key here is consistency. Changing up commands can confuse your dog, so stick with a short, sharp verbal cue to get their attention when needed.

6. Use Bitter-Tasting Deterrents

Making the pee pad taste unpleasant can discourage your puppy from chewing it. Imagine biting into something that tastes disgusting—you wouldn’t try it again!

There are many dog-safe taste deterrent sprays available that can help with this issue. If you prefer a natural solution, try lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, both of which have bitter flavors dogs tend to dislike.

7. Keep Your Puppy Engaged

Puppies chew because they’re often bored or full of excess energy. Ensure they get plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation to keep them engaged.

Interactive toys, regular walks, and structured playtime can tire out your pup, leaving them less inclined to chew on inappropriate items like their pee pads. A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy!

8. Change Pads Regularly

A soiled pad can be unpleasant for your puppy, and they may chew or scratch at it to signal it’s time for a change. Puppies pee frequently, so check and change pads regularly to avoid this issue.

Investing in reusable pads can also help, as they offer better absorption, control odors, and are more durable than disposable options.

Why Do Puppies Tear Up Their Pee Pads?

They're not being mischievous—they're simply learning the world in the only ways they know how: through chewing, scratching, and nibbling.

Here are the most common reasons puppies tear up their pads:

1. Puppies Just Want to Have Fun!

Puppies are bundles of energy with short attention spans, requiring constant stimulation to stay occupied.

Naturally, we can’t watch them every second of the day, so they’ll eventually get left to their own devices.

If left alone too long, boredom sets in—and for a pup, boredom often means tearing into their pee pads.

The soft, interesting texture of the pad, especially along the edges, makes it irresistible to curious little explorers.

2. Digging Instincts

In addition to chewing, you might notice your puppy scratching or digging at their pad. Digging is a natural instinct in dogs, and puppies often engage in it as part of their exploration.

They may be searching for something or trying to bury "treasures."

While digging is fun for pups, it’s important to discourage it if it starts to damage your home or becomes excessive.

3. Unmet Needs

When dogs exhibit unwanted behaviors, it's often their way of telling us something.

Puppies, especially, can't use words to communicate their distress, so they act out.

If your puppy is chewing or scratching their pad excessively, it could signal stress, anxiety, or a desire for more attention, socialization, or playtime.

Separation anxiety is common in younger dogs and behaviors like chewing could be their way of expressing that anxiety.

4. Boredom Strikes Again

Puppies need constant stimulation, and when they don’t get it, they turn to whatever's within reach—like their potty pads.

You may notice your puppy wandering off mid-play in search of something else to sink their teeth into. Anything soft and chewable can quickly capture their attention.

The key is to keep them engaged with toys and activities, so they’re less tempted to destroy their pads.

5. Teething Troubles

Just like human babies, teething puppies will chew on anything they can find to relieve the discomfort. Pee pads are often a target, as chewing helps soothe their sore gums.

If your puppy is teething, it’s a good idea to offer dog-safe chew toys to keep them distracted from your household items and the pads.

6. Dirty Pads

Sometimes, the reason puppies chew or scratch their pee pads is simple: the pad is dirty.

Puppies pee frequently because they’re still learning to control their bladders, meaning their pads may need changing more often than you think.

A soiled pad can be uncomfortable, and your puppy might chew at it to signal it’s time for a fresh one. To avoid odor and bacteria buildup, change the pads regularly.

If you find disposable pads too expensive, consider investing in reusable pads—they offer better absorption, control odors, and are more eco-friendly.

Want more tips? Check out this cool video!

 

 

Next, skip to the FAQS asap!

FAQs

1. How often should I change the puppy training pads?

You should change the puppy training pads after every soiling or at least once a day, depending on how often your puppy uses them.

2. Can I train my puppy to use both training pads and go outside?

Yes, it’s possible to train your puppy to use both pads and go outside.

Start by introducing outdoor potty trips while using pads indoors for convenience, then gradually phase out the pads as your pup gets more accustomed to going outside.

3. How do I discourage my puppy from chewing on the training pads?

You can discourage your puppy from chewing on training pads by securing the edges, offering chew toys, using bitter-tasting deterrents, and supervising them closely. 

Conclusion

When learning how to stop your puppy from chewing up pee pads, the right strategies can make all the difference.

Providing chew toys, applying deterrent sprays, and redirecting their attention are all effective methods to curb this behavior.

Consistency and patience are key—reward your pup for good behavior and stay diligent during the process.

Got any puppy training tips of your own? Comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

References

1. Mickelson H. Cesar Millan’s Dog Training Methodology and the Halo Collar - Halo Collar [Internet]. Halo Collar. 2022 [cited 2024 Sep 28]. Available from: https://www.halocollar.com/cesar-millans-dog-training-methodology-and-halo-collar/