Years ago we called it ‘paper training’.  While some people still use paper, we now have a variety of absorbant pads with a moisture proof backing.  They go by a variety of names including ‘potty pads’ and ‘wee wee pads’.  The purpose is the same, a designated toilet spot for your dog.  The potty pads are superior to paper (usually newspaper) for several reasons; they are more absorbent, won’t get newsprint on your dog’s feet, and you won’t have your pup peeing on the Sunday edition you left on the floor by accident.

There are situations where having your dog trained to use a potty pad can be a good thing:  You live in an urban area with regular inclement weather.  You have health or mobility issues that make regular trips outdoors difficult.  You live in a high rise apartment so a trip to the street takes several minutes.  You travel frequently with your dog.  You work odd hours and aren’t always able to let your dog out at reasonable intervals. (more…)