An unexpected, and “unpleasant” surprise for many rescue dog parents… bringing your baby home and realizing they were likely potty trained using pee pads! Learning how to break pee pad training can present a unique challenge for new owners! While pee pads are convenient, most owners want their dog to transition to going potty outdoors. This blog will walk you through how to successfully break your dog’s reliance on pee pads and help them develop a routine for outdoor potty training.
to break pee pad training, you should first know why pee pads are used in rescue or shelter scenarios
Many rescue or shelter dogs are accustomed to pee pads due to their prior environment—especially if they spent time in shelters or foster homes. The pads serve a purpose, but it’s important to recognize that pee pad training creates a different mindset for dogs. It requires patience and consistency to transition them to outdoor pottying.
Steps to Transition From Pee Pads to Outdoor Pottying
1. Gradual Removal of Pee Pads: Start by slowly reducing the number of pee pads around the house. If you wean them off cold turkey, they may associate a carpeted area or rug in place of their pee pad. If your dog is used to multiple pads, remove one at a time so they aren’t overwhelmed. Keep a pee pad close to the door where you plan to take your dog outside.
*The pee pad closest to the door will be the final pad to be removed in a later step.
2. Create a Consistent Outdoor Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so begin taking your dog outside at the same times every day – MULTIPLE times a day. Particularly for puppies! You will want to start by taking them out every 30 minutes, ideally. Mornings, after meals, and before bed are ideal times to establish a regular potty schedule. Make sure the area you choose outside is consistent and easy for them to recognize.
3. Praise and Reward Outdoor Potty Behavior: Each time your dog successfully goes outside, immediately reward them with praise, treats, or a favorite toy. Positive reinforcement will teach them that going outside is a good thing and worth repeating!
4. Eliminate Indoor Pee Pads: Once your dog is regularly going potty outside, eliminate the remaining pee pad(s) indoors. Be prepared for accidents during this transition, but stay patient and continue with the outdoor routine. Accidents will dissipate in time, and some dogs are quicker learners than others.
5. Supervision and Crate Training: When you’re unable to supervise during their potty training times, consider using crate training to help your dog hold their bladder and avoid accidents. A properly sized crate will encourage them to wait until they’re outside, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.
6. Limit Access to the Indoors: If your dog seems to have accidents in specific rooms, limit access to those areas by closing the doors or using baby gates. This will help reduce the temptation to use an indoor space they’re familiar with from their pee pad days.
7. Clean Accidents Thoroughly: If your dog has an indoor accident, clean it immediately with an enzyme-based cleaner. This will remove any lingering scent that might prompt them to use that spot again.
Our favorite cleaner for potty training accidents and clean-up has been Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odor Eliminator, which can be purchased on Amazon here! This cleaner is highly-rated and for good reason – it breaks down the enzymes in dog/cat urine and accidents to discourage repeat accidents.
Addressing Challenges Along the Way
Breaking pee pad training can be tricky… and exhausting, especially with rescue dogs who may have anxiety or be unsure about the outdoors. Here are a few common challenges and how to address them:
- Fear of the Outdoors: Although not super common by the point your dog arrives home, given your dog’s personal experiences and trauma, your dog may be hesitant to go outside. Take it slow. Spend time in the yard or on short walks to help them get comfortable. Encourage outdoor exploration with treats and toys.
- Accidents After Progress: Setbacks are normal, so don’t get discouraged if your dog regresses. Go back to basics and reinforce the routine.
- Reluctance in Bad Weather: If your dog refuses to go outside in rain or snow, consider using a covered outdoor area or taking them on walks to stimulate the need to go. You can also consider getting them a waterproof raincoat or consider using an umbrella in bad weather. (Here’s a raincoat that we recommend on Amazon: HDE Dog Raincoat Hooded Slicker Poncho for Small to X-Large Dogs and Puppies
Final Thoughts: From Pee Pads to Outdoor POTTY Success!
Transitioning your adopted dog from pee pads to outdoor pottying is a process that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following these steps, you can help your rescue dog learn a new, more natural potty routine that benefits both of you in the long run.
By breaking their pee pad habit and teaching them to go outdoors, you’re providing them with more structure and confidence in their new forever home.
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