Best Puppy Pads

Puppy pads are indispensable for pet parents when house training a puppy, but these pads have many other uses, too. If you live in an apartment and it’s not always easy to get outside with your dogs or if you have to leave your pet alone for a few hours, puppy pads help ensure dogs don’t make huge messes.

These absorbent training pads are great for older dogs suffering from urinary incontinence or when your dog is getting sick and can’t reliably make it outside before having to go. They’re also useful for travel, protecting your car seats, or lining the bottom of your pet’s crate.

As you can see, the best puppy pads come in handy throughout the lifetime of your pet. There is a lot to choose from, so we rounded up the best of the best puppy pads to help you find the right one for you.

1. furpawz XL Fresh Scent Puppy Dog Training Pads

These disposable puppy training pads from furpawz are some of the most effective and reliable on the market. They are made of six layers, including a top layer of hydrophobic non-woven puncture-proof PE, a liquid drainage layer, super-absorbent core, moisture-locking fluff, an odor control liner, and a bottom layer of leak proof protection. There’s also a built-in attractant that draws your pet to the pad, which may make training easier.

These pads hold up to an astounding eight cups of liquid, an impressive amount that makes them great for large breeds. Each package contains 70 pads that are 34 by 28 inches. Smaller sized pads are also available, measuring 22 by 22 inches. This size holds up to five cups of liquid and is a great pet pad for smaller sized dogs.

2. ValuePad Plus Puppy Pads

These best puppy pads from ValuePad are an excellent choice if you’re looking for something disposable and you prefer to buy in bulk. A box of these puppy training pads contains 100 pads, each 28 by 44 inches. This is a great size that can be used for just about any dog with room to spare, ideal for preventing any accidental drips on your hard floors or carpet.

These pads have five layers. The top layer is a quilted top sheet that locks away moisture and won’t snag on your pet’s paws. Beneath that is a tissue layer that helps wick water away from the surface, followed by a super absorbent core that draws in moisture and locks it in place. Under that is another layer of absorption for extra protection, followed by a bottom poly layer that’s tough enough to maintain the integrity of the pad, making them leak proof.

While these training pads are one of the best options and are extremely effective, they are a bit bulkier than some of the other options and take up a lot of room in the trash. That said, they’re so effective that you won’t use nearly as many as you would lower quality pads, which is something to consider.

3. Yangbaga Washable Pee Pads for Dogs

Reusable, washable pee pads are one of the best ways to be eco-friendly as a pet owner, and this product from Yangbaga is a great choice. It has four layers, including a top cloth to absorb urine, an absorbent core layer that soaks it up, and provides odor control, a premium velvet layer that’s leak-proof, and a non-slip rubber layer on the bottom. It absorbs urine and odor in as little as two minutes.

When this pee pad is soiled, all you have to do is toss it in the washing machine. It’s made tough and can withstand up to 300 washes. Plus, it won’t shrink so you can continue using it over and over again.

These pads are a generous size, great for extra large dogs. It measures 36 by 64 inches and has a fun pattern of black and white cartoonish dogs, bones, and food dishes against a bright blue background.

4. SincoPet Reusable Pee Pad

Another option for great reusable puppy pee pads is this design from SincoPet. These pads have four layers: a 100 percent polyester knitted top layer for comfort, a high-density super absorbent middle layer to soak up and lock in urine, a breathable waterproof inner layer that makes them leak-proof, and a 100 percent polyester bottom layer with silica gel grips. This unique blend of fabrics wicks away and holds more moisture per square inch than a lot of its competitors.

What we love best about these training pads is how many options there are. There are multiple sizes available, including 60 by 60 inches, 72 by 72 inches, 31 by 36 inches, 36 by 41 inches, and 48 by 60 inches as well as 36 and 48-inch round options. This means you can choose just what you need for your dog and the space you have in your home. Most of these sizes are also available in packs of two, which we highly recommend so you have a backup to use while the other is the wash.

The pattern is cute and simple, a brown background. This puppy pad also includes a pet grooming glove as a nice bonus. They’re covered by a two-year warranty and a 100 percent money-back guarantee if you’re not happy.

5. EZwhelp Machine Washable Reusable Pee Pad

The EZwhelpreusable puppy pee pads are one of the best choices for the environmentally conscious. It’s made of four layers: a fast-absorbing top layer, a high-density layer to lock in liquid, a breathable waterproof layer, and a bottom layer of brushed polyester. The rounded corners minimize curling and help the pads lay flat against the floor.

The plain brown design is a great choice if you prefer a potty pad that blends in rather than one that’s covered in fun patterns or bright colors. These washable puppy pee pads are available in multiple sizes, too, including 17 by 20 inches, 27 by 32 inches, 47 by 47 inches, and 72 by 72 inches. This means you can choose the perfect size for your pet.

6. Four Paws Wee-Wee Puppy Training

The Four Paws Wee-Wee Puppy Training pads are 80 percent larger and more absorbent than average training pads, which makes them one of the best choices for extra-large breeds. They’re made of five layers for extreme absorption, including a tear-resistant, quick-drying surface layer that won’t cling to your puppy’s paws. Under that are two super absorbent layers that pull liquid from the surface and a super-absorbent polymer core that locks in liquid.

These puppy training pads are treated with an attractant that draws your dog to them, which may make it much easier to housetrain your puppy. At 28 by 34 inches, they’re a good size for just about any breed. You can order multiple different quantities, too, from 14 count to 75 count.

7. BESTLE Extra Large Pet Training and Puppy Pads

These disposable puppy training pads from BESTLE are a highly absorbent choice that holds as many as nine cups of liquid. The five-layer design is made up of a top quilted layer, followed by a super absorbent layer, a polymer gel layer, a liquid-locking layer, and a leak-proof bottom layer to protect the floor.

These puppy training pads measure 28 by 34 inches, a good size for a small to medium breed, and you get 40 in each package. This is the best choice if you prefer to use disposable potty training pads and want to buy in bulk.

8. KOOLTAIL Washable Pee Pads for Dogs

Another good choice for the best reusable puppy pee pads is these quick-drying pee pads from KOOLTAIL. The top layer is made of a cotton-polyester blend, followed by a highly-dense and super absorbent layer. Under that is a breathable waterproof layer with a 100 percent polyester knitted fabric on the bottom.

These pads are washable and unscented. You can get packs of two or four pads, and each included a red plaid design and a blue plaid design, a classic look that isn’t too cutesy or plain. This way, you have a backup when the soiled one is in the wash.

There are multiple sizes to choose from, too: 18 by 24 inches, 24 by 36 inches, and 36 by 41 inches. These are great options for small to medium-sized breeds and puppies.

9. BarkBox Odorless Puppy Pads

These disposable potty pads from BarkBox are one of the best and most affordable options out there. Each of these pee pads holds at least 3 cups of liquid, thanks to the gel technology that sucks up liquid and minimizes leaks. The 22 by 22-inch size is perfect for puppies and small dogs, and the sticky pads on the bottom prevent them from scooting around your hardwood or tile floor.

BarkBox pads use a special pheromone built-in attractant that draws your pet to them and may make puppy training easier. They also have a quick-drying surface so you don’t have to worry about your pup spreading the liquid around after stepping off the pad. This box contains 100 potty training pads and includes a potty training guide to help you get started.

10. Niubya Washable Dog Pee Pads

Niubya washable dog pee pads have five layers that are super absorbent and control odor. The top layer is a 50/50 cotton and polyester blend that’s soft and comfortable, followed by a super-absorbent high-density inner layer and a breathable waterproof layer. On the bottom is a layer of 100 percent polyester.

These pads are easy to wash, just toss it in the washing machine. The material air dries quickly and they’re ready to use again in no time. Niubya covers these pads with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a two-year hassle-free guarantee. They’re available in two sizes, 30 by 32 inches and 40 by 36 inches, and they come in packs of two, so you can have one to put down for your pet while the other is in the wash.

What to Look for When Choosing a Puppy Pad

There are a few things to look for when determining whether or not puppy pads are right for your dog. Here are some of the things to consider:

Size

The size of the puppy pad you should choose depends on the size of your dog. So, a small pad for a small breed and a large pad for a large or extra-large breed. That said, you might want to consider going up a size, especially if your dog is sick, elderly, or having a difficult time with potty training. A larger size gives your dog a wider area to aim for, preventing unnecessary messes.

Absorbency

Good pee pads can hold a large amount of urine, so you don’t have to worry about any drips or your dog tracking stains all over the floor when potty training. Pads should also have a quick-drying surface so it remains relatively dry to the touch. Another thing to look for is a leak-proof guarantee. There’s no point in using a pee pad that lets urine leak all over the floor or soaks into your carpet. Look at the product to see how much it holds. For example, 3 cups of liquid are enough for a small or medium-sized breed. That said, 3 cups of liquid would not be enough for larger adult dogs.

Durability

This is particularly important if you have a dog that’s excitable or destructive. You don’t want the pee pads getting shredded or torn to pieces, so make sure it’s able to stand up to a little abuse.

Odor Control

Some high-quality pee pads feature an odor neutralizer that can help cover up any bad odors so you don’t have to deal with the constant smell of urine. While some use natural products like baking soda to soak up the odor, others try to cover it up a bit with scents like lemon or lavender.

Adhesive

This is the best way to make sure the puppy pad isn’t going to scoot around all over the floor, which can be an issue with hardwood or tile floors.

Eco-Friendly

We included a mix of disposable and reusable pads. Reusable, washable pads are a good eco-friendly choice since they don’t get thrown away, but even some of the disposable options are biodegradable. Check the label to be sure.

How to Train a Puppy to Pee on a Pad

Potty training a dog to use a pee pad can seem like an overwhelming task the first time you do it, but, don’t worry, you’ll both get there in time. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to getting started.

1. Introduce your pet to the pee pad by physically bringing it over to the pad about 20 minutes after it eats.

2. Throughout the day, keep bringing your dog over to the pad, even if they don’t use it to pee. Do this every day for between three days and a week. Your dog doesn’t necessarily have to use the pad yet. This period is just to get them used to coming over to the pad.

3. Some pee pads already contain a built-in attractant. If the one you chose does not or if it isn’t effective, try dabbing a rag in your puppy’s urine and placing it under the pad. This will attract your dog and indicate that the pad is where it’s supposed to pee.

4. Once your puppy is used to the idea of the puppy pad, watch it for signs that it needs to pee. When you see something, take them to the pad. As it starts to pee on the pad, give a verbal command that it will associate with peeing, like “go potty” or “time to pee” or “potty time”.

5. Continue taking your puppy to the pad every time you pick up on a cue that it has to pee, repeating the verbal command. In time, your puppy will associate the command with peeing and know that it’s time to do its business.

6.  Try to avoid letting your puppy pee anywhere other than the pad. This is particularly important at the beginning of potty training. Use a collar or leash to hold the dog on the puppy pad when peeing if necessary. That said, if your puppy does pee somewhere other than the pads, don’t yell and get angry because it will only scare your puppy, making training even more difficult.

7. Reward and praise your pup when it successfully uses the pads. This is the best way to let your dog know it’s done something right and encourage it to do it again.

8. If your ultimate goal is to get your dog to pee outside, move the doggie pee pads closer and closer to the door as your dog gets used to peeing on it. Repeat the previous steps until the pad is outside. Once they go outside to pee, puppy training is complete.

How Long Should You Use Puppy Pads?

If you’re using puppy pads strictly for house training dogs, you should only use them until your dog learns to go outside to use the bathroom. How long this takes depends on how long it takes your dog to catch on.

That said, it’s always a good idea to have a stash of puppy pads on hand. You never know when your dog will get sick and you’ll need them. They also come in handy for travel and older dogs who can’t reliably make it outside to do their business.

Are There Other Ways to Use Puppy Pads?

Yes! Puppy pads are extremely useful, especially the reusable ones. Some of these products are perfect to drape over a couch or chair to protect it from accidents and shedding dogs, and you can also use them under food and water bowls to create a separate area for your dog.

Do Puppy Pads Really Work?

A doggy pee pad does work for potty routines, but there is some debate as to whether or not pet parents should use them in that way. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons.

Pros

1. Pads are convenient. You can put potty pads anywhere and they’re really quick-drying, leak-proof, and easy to clean up. Plus, if your dog all of a sudden decides it’s time to go, you might not have time to get it outside before it’s too late. In this case, grabbing a puppy pad is much easier than finding the leash and taking your dog out for a walk, especially if you live in an apartment.

2. Pads create a designated spot for your dog to go. If you have an elderly dog that can’t reliably hold it until it gets outside, having a convenient place where it can go indoors is a great way to prevent accidents.

3. Puppy pads are a great alternative to going outside when the weather doesn’t agree. If it’s pouring down with rain or cold and snowy, taking your dog outside to go to the bathroom is uncomfortable for both you and your dog. Having a puppy pad available makes things easier and more convenient.

Cons

1. Your dog could mistake other things for a doggie pee pad, like a throw rug or bathroom mat. It may take a lot of redirection to get your dog to use only the designated pee pad.

2. Pet training pads can make potty training more difficult. If you want your dog to go strictly outside, allowing them to pee inside might become a hard habit to break because it does send a bit of a mixed message. That said, it’s certainly possible using the method we described earlier, though it might take a little longer with some dogs. There is always a risk that your pet will become too dependent on pee pads, too.

3. Pads are another thing for your pet to chew. While most of these puppy pads are durable and not easy to destroy, some dogs can tear up just about anything. A pee pad, whether reusable or disposable, is an easy target.

Multipurpose Doggy Pee Pads Are Worth the Investment

Although there are conflicting opinions about whether or not doggy pee pads should be used for pet training, they’re still extremely useful and something pet parents should invest in. By having the best doggy pads on hand, you’re prepared if your pet gets sick or if the weather doesn’t permit a nice walk outside for your dog to do its business.

Mary Nielsen

I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. There was no choice but to take care of and learn about dog habits and the best animal care practices — otherwise, I’d be clueless about how to go about the creatures I was surrounded by day and night.

As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Although I’m not a professionally trained dog behaviorist, trainer, or veterinarian, all of my knowledge and experience with canines comes from a place of love and a deep-rooted passion for dogs and animals in general.

Seeing as dogs kept me company throughout every stage of my life, I decided to follow a different path in my academic life and obtained a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Marketing Management and Digital Advertising, which ultimately allowed me to combine my professional training and personal experience by creating the ultimate dog lover’s resource website! Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being.