About 68% of homeowners own a pet, with 48 million American households owning a dog. Unfortunately, many dog owners have to leave their furry friends at home during the day. Whether you have a puppy or an older dog, you might want to consider using potty pads when you’re not home.
What are the pros and cons of using potty pads as a dog owner? Read on to find out!
After reviewing this guide, you can determine if pads suit your dog’s needs.
Pro: Convenience
One of the top benefits of pee pad training your puppy is the ease and convenience.
You can place pee pads anywhere within your home, based on the ease of access for your pet. In some cases, it’s faster and easier for your pet to access a pee pad inside your home. For example, perhaps you live in an apartment on the top floor.
If it’s an emergency, you won’t have to rush into an elevator or down the stairs before your pup has an accident.
Pee pads also offer convenience if you’re mobility impaired. You won’t have to worry about long trips downstairs when your pup needs to go!
The ease and convenience is also ideal if you’re worried about a potential mess.
Like diapers, pee pads can soak up liquid, minimizing messes and splatter. Once your pup is done, you can simply toss them into the trash. You can also buy washable, reusable pads if you prefer an eco-friendly option.
Having an appropriate potty spot in your home will also tell your dog where to go. You won’t have to worry about them peeing where they eat or sleep. Instead, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your dog is trained to go on their pad.
Con: Confusion
Unfortunately, your dog might get confused about where they’re allowed to pee when you first start training them. For example, they might think a newspaper or thin piece of paper is a pee pad, too. You’ll need to teach them that it’s only okay to go on their designated pad.
Try to avoid leaving newspapers on the floor. Instead, show your dog exactly where they’re allowed to go.
Create a designated spot for the bathroom. While you’re still training them, keep an eye out for square mats or rugs they might confuse as a pad, too.
Pro: Ideal for All Ages
You’re not limited to potty training a puppy to use a pad. You can also teach an older dog to use one when you’re away or at work.
Having a backup in the house when you’re away for prolonged periods of time can give you peace of mind. They’re also ideal for sick, disabled, or senior dogs that need to use the bathroom frequently.
Con: Difficulty Training
Some dogs don’t like potty pads, especially after years of learning to go outside. It’s best to potty train a pup to use a pad inside the house while they’re still young. Otherwise, they might stubbornly refuse to use one as they get older.
If you’re having difficulty potty training your dog to use a pad, try to remain patient. It does require an adjustment period.
Pro: Versatile
There are many types of potty pads available, meaning you can find an option that suits your dog’s preferences. Having an abundance of options available could make it easier for your dog to make the adjustment.
You can choose between different absorption levels, odor control, or sizes.
Some pads also have added attractants to simulate the smell of pheromones, ammonia, or grass. These options might be ideal if your dog is struggling to adjust to using a pad.
You can find more on pee pads here.
Con: Outdoor Failure
Potty training your dog to go indoors on a mat (while they’re still young) might send them mixed messages about going outside. The confusion might cause them to have accidents.
In other cases, a puppy could become dependent on using a pee pad. They might struggle to go outside when you want them to.
Again, remain patient with your pup.
Pro: Weather-Friendly
Whether there’s a light drizzle or heavy rain, you likely won’t want to take your dog outside during a storm. Potty training your dog with potty pads can give your pup an ideal option when it’s raining or wet out.
Otherwise, your dog might feel uncomfortable or get distracted.
Having an option during inclement weather can help you avoid a stressful situation or emergency.
Con: Chewing and Shredding
Some dogs develop a habit of chewing or shredding their pee pads. After all, dogs like to explore with their mouths. Your pet might start shredding and swallowing the mat while they’re still adjusting.
In fact, some dogs also eat their own stool (coprophagia). A potty pad might cause confusion, causing them to develop coprophagia. The risk is higher if your dog is left unsupervised during the day.
Other dogs might confuse their pee pads for a comfortable resting spot. They might start using their potty pads as a bed. Your pup might get smelly and dirty if they’re laying down in their own waste when you’re not home.
Consider Using Potty Pads for Your Furry Friend
Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of using potty pads to indoor potty train your pup. For many pet owners, the pros outweigh the cons. You’ll have the ease and convenience of an indoor option, whether it’s raining or you’re not at home.
Reduce the occurrence of emergencies in your home by getting your pup potty pads today.
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