It is something you will have to learn to gauge by your individual puppy's use. According to the AKC, most puppy pads need changing after a maximum of three uses. However, should the puppy pad start giving off a smell, it's time to swap it out with a new one. Unused puppy pads can stand for a couple of days.
As soon as they're dirty. But the age of your pup comes into the equation too. Puppies younger than 12 weeks or not fully potty trained should have their dog pee pads changed every 1-2 hours.
Most pups are potty trained at around six months as an average. Still, it can take much less time, or over a year - particularly for teacup breeds with tiny bladders that need to reach almost adulthood before they can go a few hours without an accident!
Using the same spot will help your puppy make the association of where you'd like them to go, and create the muscle memory of going there so they create this good habit faster! In the beginning, we suggest covering a wider area with 3-4 potty pads until your puppy learns how to target the pad more precisely.
It's recommended to wash at least once a week, might be more often with multiple pets. To clean, insert pads in washer with laundry detergent (no bleach) and wash on regular cycle (warm water).
This can be a pee pad or maybe a litter box lined with sod or artificial turf. Don't use blankets/bedding/pee pads, if your puppy tends to eat those items. Set up a "puppy zone" (aka confinement area). This may be a small room, kitchen, bathroom, or an exercise pen in a larger room.
Don't whip the puppy training pads away at the first sign of pee in the garden. These things do take time, and a puppy bladder takes months to grow, so even if they only occasionally use it, leaving out the pads at night will help them feel settled and relieve any anxiety.
Place them in one location of the house. This location should stay static over time and not move around the house. If possible, the potty pad should be on wood/tile and not on carpet. A pee pad on carpet can be confusing.
You can start by putting some pee pads in your yard and telling your dog to use them. He may not completely understand what you want him to do right away, but he will learn quickly if you keep using the pads. This is to make sure your dog knows how to use the pee pads.
What To Put Under Pee Pads? We recommend having them on a hard surface like hardwood that is easy to clean if the pee pads leak. You could also put the pee pad on a small, inexpensive rug that you can wash if need be (which might help the pads from sliding around too).
Having your dog go outside is the ideal solution, but potty pads can sometimes play a role in successful potty training. For example, with very young puppies it's necessary to make frequent trips outside. That might be too challenging for elderly owners or apartment dwellers.
Having a pet sitter or someone you know, such as a friend or neighbour, spend time with your puppy when you're working is a great way to lower the risk of boredom or separation anxiety. If possible, have someone stop by every couple of hours while you're gone if your puppy is younger.
Once you select the best Wee-Wee Pad for your dog, place it somewhere they can easily access and away from heavy foot traffic. A corner of the room where your pet spends most of their time is often ideal.
Now let's go to the cons of puppy pads:
They may become such a great convenience that puppy pads can make the owners lazy so the dog will go outside less. They can slow down the housebreaking process. It can become difficult and confusing for a puppy to teach it that it is expected to do its business outside.
Choosing the right bed is essential. A dog's bed is a place he can retreat to when he needs time by himself. Though many people think dogs can curl up and sleep most anywhere, your furry friend really shouldn't be sleeping on the floor. You also probably don't want him climbing up on your beds or sofas.
We recommend at least having them in your bedroom with you in the beginning in either a dog bed or crate. Having your puppy in your bedroom with you will make them feel more reassured. Then, you can gradually move them to where you would like them to sleep permanently.
Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long. DO prepare your dog before you go.
Once your dog reaches three months old, they can usually hold it for an hour for each month they've been alive. After six months, dogs can usually hold it for up to six hours. However, even adult dogs shouldn't be home alone for much longer than six to eight hours without a chance for a bathroom break.
How often should my puppy eat? Puppies should eat three times a day from weaning through four to six months, if possible. After six months, twice-a-day feedings are fine. But if you're not able to feed your pup three times a day, don't worry.
Be consistent. Puppies crave consistency in their daily routine and in puppy training. Correct bad dog behavior immediately and firmly every time it happens with a firm voice, a loud noise like a hand clap, or through redirection, like offering them a chew toy when they exhibit biting behavior.
Knowing what to put in a puppy crate at night will make your puppy as comfortable as possible. A soft crate bedding and some toys will be helpful. Also, ensure that the dog's crate itself is chew-proof so he's not escaping when you're asleep.