Puppy training pads are a great way to help your new puppy learn where to do their business. They can also be useful for older dogs who have trouble holding it in, or for dogs who need to go indoors due to bad weather, health issues, or travel. But not all puppy training pads are created equal. Some are more absorbent, more durable, more odor-neutralizing, and more eco-friendly than others. In this blog post, we will review 10 of the best puppy training pads on the market and explain what makes them stand out from the rest. We will also provide some tips on how to use them effectively and how to choose the right one for your pup.
How to Use Puppy Training Pads
Puppy training pads are designed to absorb urine and prevent leaks on your floor. They usually have a plastic backing and a quilted or layered surface that can hold several cups of liquid. Some also have an attractant that encourages your pup to use them, or a scent that masks the smell of urine. To use puppy training pads, you need to follow these steps:
- Choose a spot in your home where you want your puppy to go potty. It should be away from their food, water, and sleeping area, and preferably on a hard floor that is easy to clean.
- Place a puppy training pad on the floor and secure it with tape or adhesive tabs if it has them. Make sure the absorbent side is facing up and the plastic side is facing down.
- Introduce your puppy to the pad and praise them when they sniff it or step on it. You can also spray some attractant on the pad or use a pad that has been soaked with their own urine to make it more appealing.
- Whenever your puppy needs to go potty, take them to the pad and give them a cue word like “go potty” or “do your business”. Praise and reward them when they use the pad correctly.
- Replace the pad as soon as it gets wet or dirty. Dispose of it in a trash can or a biodegradable bag if it is eco-friendly.
- Gradually reduce the number of pads you use and move them closer to the door if you want to transition your puppy to going outside.
How to Choose the Best Puppy Training Pad
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best puppy training pad for your pup. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Size: The pad should be large enough to accommodate your pup’s size and potential accidents. It should also fit well in the spot you have chosen for potty training. Most pads come in standard sizes ranging from 17 x 24 inches to 28 x 34 inches, but some also offer extra-large or custom sizes.
- Absorbency: The pad should be able to absorb and lock in urine without leaking or spilling over. It should also dry quickly and prevent tracking or paw prints on your floor. The absorbency of a pad depends on its material, thickness, and design. Some pads have multiple layers, quilted patterns, or charcoal filters that enhance their absorbency.
- Odor control: The pad should be able to neutralize or mask the smell of urine without using harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Some pads have natural scents like lavender or lemon that can freshen up your home, while others have charcoal or baking soda that can eliminate odors.
- Durability: The pad should be able to withstand chewing, scratching, tearing, or shredding by your pup. It should also be resistant to bacteria, mold, or mildew that can cause health problems for your pup. Some pads have reinforced edges, tear-resistant surfaces, or antibacterial coatings that increase their durability.
- Eco-friendliness: The pad should be made of biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials that minimize its environmental impact. It should also be free of harmful substances like chlorine, bleach, or dyes that can irritate your pup’s skin or nose. Some pads are made of natural fibers like bamboo, cotton, or grass that are eco-friendly.
The 10 Best Puppy Training Pads
Based on our research and testing, here are the 10 best puppy training pads that we recommend:
1. Bulldogology Premium Puppy Pee Pads – Best Overall Puppy Pads
These pads have optional adhesive tabs on all four corners that keep them in place on your floor. They come in different sizes and quantities to suit your needs. They also have a charcoal version that offers extra odor control and a black color that hides stains. These pads are made by Bulldogology, a reputable brand that has been making quality pet products since 2015.
2. Pet Parents Pawtect Pads- Best Washable Puppy Pads
These pads have a proprietary WickQuick technology that wicks away moisture and odor from the surface, keeping your puppy and your home clean and fresh. They come in different sizes and colors to match your decor. They also have a snap system that allows you to attach multiple pads together to create a larger area for your pup. These pads are made by Pet Parents, a family-owned company that makes high-quality pet products.
3. Glad for Pets Activated Carbon Training Pads – Best Budget Puppy Pads
These pads have a pheromone attractant that encourages your pup to use them, making potty training easier and faster. They come in different sizes and quantities to fit your needs. They also have a paw print design that adds some fun and style to your home. These pads are made by Glad, a trusted brand that has been making household products since 1963.
4. Hartz Home Protection Puppy Potty Pads – Best Scented Puppy Pads
These pads have an indicator that changes color when wet, letting you know when to change the pad. They come in different sizes and quantities to suit your needs. They also have an unscented version if you prefer a more natural option. These pads are made by Frisco, a brand that offers quality pet products at affordable prices.
5. Four Paws Wee-Wee Pee Pads – Best Puppy Pads For Large Dogs
These pads have an attractant that entices your puppy to use them, making potty training easier and faster. They come in different sizes and quantities to fit your needs. They also have different versions, such as odor control, heavy duty, or grass scent, to suit your preferences. These pads are made by Four Paws, a brand that has been making innovative pet products since 1970.
6. IMMCute Dog Pee Pads – Best Multifunctional Puppy Pads
covers, or post-surgery pads. They are made of four layers of material that can absorb and lock in urine and odor without leaking or spilling over. They also have a non-slip backing and a waterproof coating that prevent slips and stains.
These pads have a cute and colorful design that adds some fun and style to your home. They come in different sizes and patterns to match your decor. They are also washable and reusable, saving you money and reducing waste. These pads are made by IMMCute, a brand that offers quality pet products at reasonable prices.
7. Bark & Clean Charcoal Training Pads – Best Charcoal Puppy Pads
These pads have an attractant that lures your puppy to the pad and helps with potty training. They come in different sizes and quantities to suit your needs. They also have a black color that hides stains and blends in with your floor. These pads are made by Bark, a brand that offers quality pet products and services.
8. DoggieLawn Disposable Dog Potty – Best Lawn Puppy Pads
These pads have an attractant that encourages your puppy to use them, making potty training easier and faster. They come in different sizes to fit your pup’s size and breed. They also have a subscription service that delivers fresh grass pads to your door every 1, 2, or 4 weeks, depending on your preference. These pads are made by DoggieLawn, a brand that offers innovative pet products and solutions.
You can buy these pads on Amazon for $29 for one pad.
9. AmazonBasics Pet Training Pads – Best Value Puppy Pads
These pads have an attractant that entices your puppy to use them, making potty training easier and faster. They come in different quantities to fit your needs. They also have an indicator that changes color when wet, letting you know when to change the pad. These pads are made by AmazonBasics, a brand that offers quality products at low prices.
You can buy these pads on Amazon for $18.99 for a pack of 100.
10. PetSafe Pet Loo Portable Dog Potty – Best Portable Potty System (Puppy Pad Alternative)
These pads have a natural look and feel that appeal to your pup’s instincts, making potty training easier and faster. They come in different sizes to fit your pup’s size and breed. They also have an optional Pee Pod tray that uses a powder to turn urine into gel, preventing spills and odors. These pads are made by PetSafe, a brand that offers trusted pet products and solutions.
Conclusion
Puppy training pads are a useful tool for potty training your new puppy or providing a convenient option for your older dog. They can help you keep your home clean and odor-free, while also teaching your puppy good habits. However, not all puppy training pads are the same. Some are more absorbent, more durable, more odor-neutralizing, and more eco-friendly than others. Don’t be afraid to try different versions or ask your dog trainer or vet for recommendations.