Now you bought the best pee pee pads for dogs & wondering how to train your puppy to use potty pads?
We've got you covered.
Potty training a puppy can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not sure how to train your puppy on potty pads—but don't worry!
With the help of Luftpets experts -- and some tried-and-true puppy pad training techniques --- you'll have your pup confidently using their pad... in no time!
Whether you're in an apartment without easy outdoor access or just dealing with a stubborn learner, this guide will walk you through everything pup-wise and more!
Ready for hassle-free training? Let’s dive in!
Key takeaways
- Consistency is key—choose a dedicated spot and stick to a schedule.
- Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise to encourage good habits.
- Troubleshoot common issues, like chewing the pads or accidents, with close supervision and a firm routine.
Read More: Do puppy pads work?
How to Train Your Puppy to Potty on a Pad | In 8 Easy Steps!
Training your new puppy to use potty pads might feel overwhelming, but the right strategy can make it smooth sailing!
Step 1: Choose a Consistent Spot
The first secret to potty pad success? Location, location, location!
“Location consistency is key, as dogs can get confused if the pad moves,” suggest vet experts at the Puppy Academy.
Pick a designated spot in your home and stick to it—this helps your puppy develop muscle memory and creates a faster learning process.
In the beginning, you might want to use multiple pads to cover a wider area. Gradually reduce the number as your puppy becomes more precise.
Step 2: Watch for Signs That Your Puppy Needs to Go
Puppies give clear signals when they need to relieve themselves, like sniffing the ground, circling, or becoming restless.
If you can’t supervise them all the time, limit their movement to one small room or crate-train them (since most dogs won’t soil their sleeping area).
However, avoid placing a pad inside the crate, as puppies may chew or swallow it.
Step 3: Frequently Place Your Puppy on the Pad
How do you train a puppy to use puppy pads effectively? Simple—place them on the pad frequently, especially after they wake up, eat, or drink.
These are prime times for bathroom breaks. Associate this with a command like “Go Potty” and give them a few minutes to relieve themselves.
Never leave your puppy alone for too long during this phase, as it could slow down their progress.
Step 4: Create a Potty Schedule
Consistency is key when learning how to train your puppy to potty on a pad. Establishing a set schedule for bathroom breaks helps prevent accidents.
Start by guiding your puppy to the pad at regular intervals, especially after meals and naps.
Stick to this schedule as closely as possible to create a routine your puppy can follow.
Step 5: Use a Leash or Pen for Targeting
When teaching how to get your dog to poop on the pad, consider using a leash or enclosing the pad in a small pen. This helps keep your puppy focused on the designated area.
If they don’t go within 5 minutes, take them back to their crate and try again in 15-20 minutes.
Step 6: Reward Good Behavior
Puppies thrive on positive reinforcement. Each time your puppy uses the pad successfully, celebrate with praise, treats, or affection.
This reward system will help your puppy associate going potty on the pad with good things and encourage them to repeat the behavior.
If accidents happen, avoid punishment as it can confuse them.
Step 7: Move the Pads Closer to the Door
Once your puppy has mastered how to get your dog to use a puppy pad consistently, start moving the pad closer to the door.
This will help them transition to outdoor potty training.
Always use the same command and reward system to help them adjust to the new location without confusion.
Step 8: Transition the Pad Outside
Finally, move the pad outside onto the grass.
In fact, the goal here is to eventually wean your puppy off the pads entirely and get them used to going outdoors.
Keep using lots of praise and treats for encouragement during this crucial phase of toilet training.
Skip to this video for an all-sizes summary:
Now, let's learn some potty perks!
Why Use Potty Pads? The Practical Perks
Potty pads are more than just a quick fix—they’re a highly practical solution for apartment dwellers, puppy parents with limited outdoor access, or those with young dogs who aren’t yet fully vaccinated.
Instead of the old-school methods like newspapers or towels, which were messy and far less effective, modern potty pads are absorbent, odor-wicking, and easy to clean.
And hey, they save you from countless scrubs and ensure your puppy learns to use a specific indoor spot to relieve themselves!
Common Challenges: How to Stop Puppy from Chewing Up Pee Pads and Other Troubleshooting
Training a puppy is never without hiccups. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
1. Chewing the Pad
Wondering how to stop your puppy from chewing up pee pads? The answer is close supervision! Puppies love to turn everything into a toy, but tearing up pads can derail training.
If this becomes a habit, consider using washable, reusable pads like these washable dog pee pads to reduce waste and damage.
2. Accidents
Accidents happen! If your puppy misses the mark, it’s usually a sign they haven’t mastered the schedule yet. Tighten up the frequency of potty breaks, and be patient as they learn.
3. Crate Accidents
Ensure the crate isn’t too big. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, but if the crate is too spacious, they might feel okay with going in one corner and sleeping in another.
Can You Train an Older Dog to Use Pee Pads?
Absolutely! Training an older dog to use pee pads follows the same principles as puppies but requires extra patience.
Finding out how to train older dog to use pee pads might take longer, but with consistent guidance, you can teach then to use a pad reliably.
Follow the steps above, and remember to reinforce the positive behavior with treats and praise.
Mastering the 3-Step Process: The Best Way to Train a Puppy to Use Puppy Pads
While there's no single "best" method for every dog, some general tips can help streamline the process:
- Stay Consistent: Repetition and routine are critical. Stick to the same spot, pad, and commands to avoid confusion.
- Supervise Closely: During the training phase, always keep an eye on your pup to prevent them from wandering off and making a mistake.
- Be Patient: Whether you’re working on how to train your puppy on potty pads or transitioning your dog to outdoor potty breaks, patience is key. Every dog learns at their own pace!
FAQs
1. How long does it take to potty pad train a puppy?
Potty pad training typically takes a few weeks to several months, depending on the puppy’s learning pace.
Consistency, a regular schedule, and positive reinforcement help accelerate the process.
2. How often should I change the potty pad?
Change the potty pad at least once daily, or immediately after it’s soiled, to maintain cleanliness and prevent odors.
This also encourages your puppy to use the pad regularly, reinforcing successful training.
3. Can I transition my dog from potty pads to going outside?
Yes, transitioning from potty pads to outdoor pottying is possible with gradual steps.
Start by moving the pad closer to the door, then outside, encouraging your dog with praise and treats.
Conclusion
Learning how to train your puppy on potty pads -- as you've learned -- isn’t always easy. But it’s absolutely achievable with persistence, positive reinforcement, and the right tools.
Once your pup is consistently using their pad, you can start transitioning them to outdoor potty breaks or continue using pads for convenience.
Now that you know how to get your dog to poop on the pad and more, it’s time to get started.
Keep these tips handy, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your dog adapts to their new routine. Ready to kickstart your puppy's training journey?
Check out these washable dog pee pads from Luftpets for a practical, eco-friendly solution to your potty pad needs ASAP!
References:
1. Catalin Costescu. Vet advice: How to potty train a puppy on pads - If Pets Could Talk [Internet]. If Pets Could Talk. 2020 [cited 2024 Sep 23]. Available from: https://blog.pet-supermarket.co.uk/blog/vet-advice-how-to-potty-train-a-puppy-on-pads/