Grass for Puppy Potty Training

Puppies eliminate much more frequently than adult dogs. In fact, your puppy should be allowed to do his "business" about every four hours, as well as upon waking from a nap and right after feeding. Using grass for puppy potty training is an attractive alternative for pet owners who live in an apartment, take their puppy to work during the day or simply find it difficult to take the puppy outdoors at all hours.

  1. Benefits

    • Unlike disposable "wee-wee pads" or newspaper, grass systems provide a more natural environment for your puppy to use. Synthetic grass is also durable, long lasting, easy to keep clean and more hygienic. The product is also convenient for pet owners since it serves as a portable puppy potty that can be used indoors or out. Various sizes are available for small and large breeds, and two or more systems can be connected to accommodate multiple pets.

    Structure

    • A grass potty system is designed to resemble a patch of yard in a framed box. The upper layer consists of synthetic grass that resists bacteria, urine acidity and lingering odors. The underlying base is angled slightly to channel urine into a collection tray underneath. Like the synthetic grass, the tray is also engineered to resist absorbing urine odors.

    Maintenance

    • Depending on the size of the system, the tray can hold up to 56 ounces of fluid, or nearly half a gallon of urine. The tray is removable so that the captured liquid can be poured down the toilet and the tray cleaned with mild soap and water. While it isn't necessary to replace the grass portion until signs of wear are visible, it should be rinsed with hot water each day. For this reason, many pet owners find that having a second grass mat available is convenient to use while the other dries.

    Training

    • Conditioning your puppy to use the grass potty system is similar to traditional indoor potty training. However, patience, persistence and praise are critical to success. Frequent visits to the box at appropriate times are necessary until your puppy learns that this is where he is allowed to eliminate. Each successful event should be rewarded with immediate verbal praise to reinforce the behavior.

    Considerations

    • Use of harsh cleaning products on synthetic grass may deter your puppy from using the system due to the residual chemical smell. It should also be noted that a grass puppy potty training system is not intended as a substitute for regular outdoor walking or exercise. Use of the product for any activity other than toileting, such as eating or sleeping, should be discouraged. Note that some systems are equipped with real sod, which must be replaced more frequently than synthetic grass.