Hey, guys. I’m sure, over the years, we have talked about the topic of the day before. Today I want to talk to you about potty pads.

As I’m sure you know, research is continuously being conducted regarding canine behavior.

Puppy pads are generally recommended during training to help your puppy learn how and where to use the potty.

Today we are going to talk about the pros and cons to using them (whether you are adopting a puppy or an adult dog).

The Benefits

Obviously, the first benefit for us is simple. Putting potty training pads down around the house makes it easier for us to clean up. And, they’re convenient for our dogs.

A less common reason, but very important one, for puppy pads involves them being a good option for puppies or adult dogs who are unable to go outside due to health concerns.

The Cons

Okay, now the cons. Here we go.

One guess at what the biggest problem is. Yep, dogs can get used to them and basically learn using the bathroom in the house is an acceptable behavior. We do not like that, right? Yuck.

In order to prevent this from happening, if you do plan to use the special potty-training pads, is to slowly wean your dog off of them. These special pads are helpful in the beginning stage of potty training, but they should not be used on an ongoing basis.

Getting Used to It

For those of you who are adopting a dog or puppy, most dogs don’t automatically think, ‘hey, there’s where I am supposed to go to the bathroom.’ Be patient and be prepared for accidents.

A natural enzyme cleaner, like Nature’s Miracle, will remove the odor from the accident area. Enzyme cleaners are important. Just because we can’t smell it doesn’t mean they can’t.

If you have a house with carpet, you should probably purchase a steam cleaner, so those yucky accidents don’t ruin it.

Step-by-Step

If you do decide to go this route, I am including a step by step portion of this article for you. First, make sure you have your puppy on a leash during the potty training portion of his ‘puppyhood’ or doggy training.

Keep close attention to your puppy (or dog) and when you get the inkling she may have to go potty, that’s when you say “the word.” Personally, my word is “Outside?’ or “Potty?”

Then, take her off of the training pad and bring her to your desired area outdoors.

Praise is also key here. Make sure to use positive reinforcement when you’re potty training. Your dog wants to feel like she is doing something to make you happy. She will soon connect your happiness with her request to use the bathroom outside.

If you aren’t as successful as you thought you would be, make sure you don’t yell or punish your dog in any way. We don’t want our dogs to be afraid of us or make him feel as if he’s in trouble for relieving himself.

Teaching the difference between the floor and a pad is critical, too.

If you aren’t there to watch your puppy, keep her in a room and close it off with some puppy gates (or baby gates if you those).

Patience, patience, patience. I cannot emphasize that word enough. I know it can be frustrating at first but remain patient and try again. Practice makes perfect.

That’s all I have for you today.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.