One of the easiest and most humane ways to house-train a pet is to use puppy pads – moisture-absorbing mats, usually scented to attract canines, placed on the floor. The animal eliminates on the pad instead of the floor, saving the homeowner’s floor and wallet. Potty training puppy pads can be used as a temporary alternative for pets normally kept outdoors but who must be kept indoors for a period of time, due to illness or inclement weather, for example. They also can be used as a tool to assist with house training older dogs or ill animals that may have incontinence. One of the most effective ways to use them for training puppies is to place the dog on a pad to indicate that the mat is an appropriate place for the animal to relieve itself, then gradually move the pad closer to the door. Eventually place the pad outside, and in time the animal will be trained to go outside to relieve itself.
The mats also can be used to line kennel cages for crate training or to avoid messes in vehicles or when traveling. In addition to aiding in the housetraining process, puppy training pads save pet owners money and aggravation by protecting floors and carpets. Cleaning, particularly for carpets, can be expensive and eventually ineffective when dogs are not housebroken. With a floor protector, such costs are avoided, and cleanup is easy because soiled mats can simply be thrown away. In addition, housebreaking protectors provide a humane tool for training, eliminating fear and punishment from the training experience and instead guiding the animal on appropriate behavior.
Housebreaking puppy pads generally feature the same basic construction, regardless of brand – a large mat of moisture-absorbing padding with plastic backing and sealed edges to prevent leaks. Most are treated with a scent to attract dogs, and some brands may include an additional deodorizer or odor-absorbing agent. Just like the traditional paper training with old newspapers, all types of these mats are designed to be disposable, but with many improvements. Some brands are treated to prevent bacteria growth, and some come with trays in which to place pads for additional floor protection. Extra-large sizes are available for larger animals or homes with multiple dogs.
Training mats are affordable, with some brands selling for as little as $15 for a 200-count package. Many smaller-quantity packages are available, however, for prices of less than $10 up to more than $50 from both online dog supplies retailers and traditional stores. More expensive brands may include extra padding, or the padding may be made of an extra-absorbent material. Pad size can also be a factor in pricing. Smaller, light-absorbency types will be cheaper, compared with larger, high-absorbency brands. Regardless of the brand chosen, puppy pads will undoubtedly save a pet owner money and hassle.
