How to Train an Older Dog to Use Pee Pads: 6 Simple Steps for Quick Success

How to Train an Older Dog to Use Pee Pads in 6 Easy Steps

Whether your senior pup struggles with mobility or incontinence, reusable pee pads for dogs can be a lifesaver. Here's a simple, step-by-step process on indoor potty training!

1. Dedicate Time for Training

Set aside enough time to commit to the process fully. Older dogs, like puppies, need routine and patience to establish new habits.

Expect it to take a few weeks, so make sure you're consistent.

If you can’t block off the time, enlist the help of a trusted friend or a professional trainer. Investing time early will save you frustration in the long run.

Pro Tip: Consistency and patience are your best tools—training an older dog hinges on repetition and rewards!

2. Pick the Right Pee Pads

Choosing the right pads is crucial for success. Consider whether disposable or reusable pads suit your needs better:

• Disposable Pads: These pads are convenient and easy to dispose of, and they minimize odor and mess. Opt for ones with high absorbency and leak protection.
• Reusable Pads: More eco-friendly and budget-conscious in the long term, reusable pads are washable and durable. Non-slip pads like Pawtect® Pads are ideal for senior dogs, offering extra stability.

Bonus Tip: Make sure the pad size fits your dog—smaller pads for smaller dogs, and larger, more absorbent ones for bigger breeds.

3. Establish a Designated Potty Area

Choose a specific location for the pee pad that’s easy for your dog to access, but far from their bed and food.

Dogs dislike eliminating where they sleep or eat, so positioning the pad in a low-traffic, quiet area will encourage your dog to use it comfortably.

To help your dog recognize the pad as a bathroom spot, place a small amount of their urine on it. Dogs are naturally drawn to go where they can smell their previous bathroom spots.

Pro Tip: If your dog is accustomed to going outside, try putting the pee pad near their usual exit door to ease the transition.

4. Stick to a Consistent Routine

Routine is essential when potty-training a senior dog.

Create a schedule for bathroom breaks and stick to it, guiding your dog to the pee pad after meals, naps, or playtime. Older dogs often need more frequent breaks, so adjust your routine as needed.

Watch for signs like circling or sniffing that indicate your dog is ready to go. Gently leading them to the pad and using a leash indoors can help keep them focused during training sessions.

Pro Tip: If you can’t always supervise your dog, consider using a playpen with a pee pad inside to minimize accidents in other areas.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is critical to successful training. Whenever your dog uses the pee pad correctly, praise them, give them pets, or offer a favorite treat.

This will help your dog associate using the pad with rewards, making it more likely they’ll repeat the behavior.

Verbal cues like “go potty” or “pee here” can reinforce the habit. Use the same phrase every time your dog goes on the pad, and they’ll soon understand what you expect.

Warning: Never punish your dog for accidents. Instead, calmly redirect them to the correct spot and reward them when they succeed. Punishment causes anxiety and can make the training process harder.

6. Gradually Increase Freedom

Once your dog consistently uses the pee pad in one spot, you can slowly expand their access to other areas of the house.

Add pads in other key locations if needed, and let your dog explore these new areas at their own pace.

If your dog resists using the pad at first, don’t lose hope. Keep practicing, stay consistent with the routine, and reinforce their successes with praise and rewards until it becomes second nature.

For a quick review, check out this video:

Now, skip ahead to discover more secrets...

5 Other Secrets for Pee Pad Training Senior Dogs

1. Introduce Slowly and Gently

Let your dog get familiar with the pee pad before expecting them to use it. Allow them to sniff and explore the pad a few times to reduce hesitation.

2. Monitor Water Intake

Make sure your dog has access to fresh water, but regulating their water intake during training can help you predict when they’ll need to go and guide them to the pad in time.

3. Keep an Eye on Health Issues

Senior dogs often face health issues like incontinence or urinary infections that could affect their training. If accidents persist or your dog shows signs of discomfort, consult your vet.

4. Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly

Use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate urine odors fully. Dogs will return to spots that smell like their previous accidents, so cleaning up properly is key.

5. Consider Dog Diapers for Added Help

For more severe incontinence, dog diapers can complement the training process. Use them alongside pee pads to keep your home cleaner while your dog learns.

Stick to Scheduled Feedings to Prevent Accidents

One of the most effective ways to prevent accidents is to stick to a regular feeding schedule. Feed your dog at the same time every day, and remove the food bowl after about 20 minutes.

This helps regulate their digestion and makes it easier to predict when they’ll need to use the pee pad. Remember, consistency with feeding leads to consistency with bathroom habits—so stick to the plan!

Pro Tip: Always provide access to water, but control mealtime to avoid unpredictable bathroom breaks.

Get Your Dog Comfortable with Pee Pads Fast

Help your senior dog adjust to pee pads by making the process engaging and stress-free. Introduce them to the pad by letting them sniff, paw, and explore it until they feel comfortable.

You can encourage their interest by placing familiar scents or treats near the pad.

The faster they get familiar, the sooner they’ll start using the pads on their own.

Pro Tip: Reward your dog each time they interact with the pad to reinforce positive behavior!

How to Pick the Right Pad for Your Older Dog

Whether you're just starting with how to train a puppy on potty pads or working with an older dog, the right pad makes all the difference.

Look for pads that are highly absorbent, quick-drying, and durable—especially for older dogs who may have larger accidents.

Options like washable pee pads from LuftPets provide convenience and eco-friendliness while reducing waste, which is ideal for long-term use.

As your dog gets more accustomed to indoor pads, you might consider how to transition from potty pads to outside.

Start by gradually moving the pad closer to the door and eventually placing it outside. This process allows your older dog to adjust without feeling rushed, making the transition smoother.

Using high-quality pads will ensure that your dog feels comfortable both indoors and outdoors while keeping your home clean and stress-free.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to potty train an older dog to use pee pads?

It typically takes a few weeks of consistent training. Dedication to routine and positive reinforcement is key for success.

2. What are the best pee pads for senior dogs?

Opt for high-absorbency disposable pads or washable reusable ones. Choose a size appropriate for your dog’s breed and needs.

3. How do I encourage my dog to use the pee pad?

Guide them to the pad after meals, naps, or when they show signs of needing to go. Praise or treat them after successful use.

Conclusion

Mastering how to train an older dog to use pee pads takes patience and consistency, but it's entirely doable. 

By dedicating time, using positive reinforcement, and sticking to a regular bathroom routine, your senior dog will adapt smoothly.

Whether you’re using disposable or reusable pads, the key lies in repetition and praise. I’ve seen countless canine companions thrive with this method—yours will too!

If you're keen for more, get in touch, leave a comment, and say hi!

Resources

1. Gibeault S. Senior Dogs Might Benefit From Indoor Potty Training [Internet]. American Kennel Club. American Kennel Club; 2017 [cited 2024 Sep 24]. Available from: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/senior-dogs-might-benefit-indoor-potty-training/