Having a place for your dog to do his or her business is one of the simplest things that you need to provide as an owner. Ideally, you can simply open up the back door and let your dog use the bathroom outside. However, for some owners, that's not an option. Not everyone has a sprawling green space for dogs to roam
Other issues can also make outdoor potty time difficult. Extreme weather conditions like snow, rain, or lightning can make it unsafe. If you have a dog that's sick or suffering from a serious medical condition, they may not even be able to make it outside in the first place.
Of course, there's also the apartment dwellers and condo owners that don't have the luxury of a dedicated outdoor space.
So what are dog owners in this situation supposed to do?
An indoor dog toilet system is a great solution. These systems give your dog a place to do their business without having to leave the comforts of home. They're also a great potty training tool that can help younger dogs learn the ropes of house training. There are a number of great products on the market today. Here are a few notable options.
9 of the Best Indoor Dog Potty Systems
1. Wee-Wee Patch Indoor Potty
The Wee-Wee patch offers that realistic feel that your dog needs to do his or her business. The surface of the indoor potty is covered in artificial turf.
The turf features dual-height grass, which helps to make it feel as real as possible. It's also treated with a unique solution that attracts dogs for easy training.
When your dog urinates, the liquids will flow through the grass and into a solid tray underneath. When you need to empty the potty out, just bring it over to your toilet. There's a spout in one corner of the potty, allowing you to simply poor the mess out and flush it down.
2. PetSafe Pet Loo Portable Indoor & Outdoor Dog Potty
Available in three different sizes, the Pet Loo from PetSafe works well for most dogs. It's a great solution if you live in a highrise apartment or don't have access to a large patch of grass.
The system replicates the feeling of grass with a layer of artificial turf. Lift the turf up and you'll see a solid base that's angled to one point. Urine flows through the grass and collects in a reservoir down below.
The reservoir is quite large and can hold a considerable amount of waste. However, you can also use it to neutralize odors. The system works well with PetSafe's Wee Sponge powder. It keeps the urine contained in semi-solid form while also taking care of any smells.
3. Paws & Pals Indoor Synthetic Grass Dog Training Potty Pads & Base
This indoor potty from Paws & Pals looks simple. However, it's highly effective and designed to be easy to use. It's a three-layer potty.
On the top, you'll find a layer of artificial grass. It's treated to have an organic scent that will attract your dog. The blades are also antimicrobial to keep things fresh.
Below the grass, there's a drainage grate. It works to catch any solids so that you can take care of those separately. Finally, the bottom layer is a sturdy base and reservoir.
It's made out of heavy-duty molded plastic. Just empty out the base and your dog is good to go again.
4. Downtown Pet Supply Pee Turf Portable Dog Potty with Drawer
The Downtown Pet Supply potty has a low-profile design. It's great for dogs that are uncomfortable climbing onto taller units to take care of business.
The system is relatively simple. However, it has some handy features that can make cleaning much easier.
On top of the potty, there's a layer of antimicrobial synthetic grass. You can easily replace this grass mat or use an odor-eliminator to keep it clean.
Below the grass is a stable base. Numerous ridges are molded into the base. They're meant to guide urine down into a small drainage hole. Waste flows down to a collection drawer. The drawer slides out from the side for easy emptying
5. Petmaker Puppy Potty Trainer - The Indoor Restroom for Pets
This indoor potty from Petmaker is simple and effective. It's a three-layer system that utilizes artificial turf to make it more comfortable for your pooch.
The top layer of fake grass is odor-resistant and has antimicrobial properties. The middle layer holds the turf up and allows liquid waste to flow down. Finally, the bottom layer is a collection tray where all the urine is held.
Cleaning the dog toilet is very easy. All you have to do is rinse it out with warm soapy water. It's available in two sizes for small or medium-sized dogs.
6. Blyss Pets Klean Paws Indoor Potty for Small Dogs & Puppies
If you're looking for a grass-free option, [easyazon_link identifier="B00TTD93LQ" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]this indoor dog toilet from Blyss Pets[/easyazon_link] may be for you. It has a very simple design that can be used with standard puppy pads or newspaper.
The durable plastic base has rubber pads to prevent slipping. On top of the toilet is a removable grate. The grate keeps the pad underneath protected from curious pups.
When they're using the bathroom, the grate also keeps paws clean while allowing liquid waste to go on through.
7. PuppyGoHere Dog Litter Pan by Litter Box Training
Keep your dog's urine and feces contained with [easyazon_link identifier="B00HCK31JS" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]this pan from PuppyGoHere.[/easyazon_link] The pan is available in a range of sizes. The largest measures 28 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 9 inches tall.
The sides of the pan rise up to contain the litter medium. It can be used with a traditional puppy pad or absorbent canine litter. A wide lip makes it easy for your dog to climb in.
The design feature also makes cleanup much simpler. All you need to do is tip the pan over a waste bag and rinse it out with soapy water.
8. UGODOG Indoor Dog Potty
[easyazon_link identifier="B00152R5YQ" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]This indoor potty[/easyazon_link] also uses grates for urine drainage. However, there are two grates included. They sit side by side and are designed to make picking up poop a breeze.
When you need to dispose of stool, simply lift the small grate, bring it to the toilet or waste bag, and slide the poop down.
Below the grate is a sturdy base. You can put newspaper or absorbent pad to streamline the cleaning process. The dog toilet is perfect for small or medium-sized dogs.
9. PetSafe Piddle Place Indoor & Outdoor Dog Potty / Restroom
This indoor potty from PetSafe has many useful features that make it easy to use and clean. The top of the potty has a porous rubber mat.
It looks like grass but doesn't feature any loose bits that deteriorate over time. When your dog uses the system, their urine will flow down into a sealed collection area. A spout on the side allows you to easily dump the waste into a toilet.
Connect a hose to the spout and you'll be able to wash the collection system out. The potty comes with a handy travel lid that snaps over the potty surface.
Luxurious Real Grass Options
Real grass mimics the sensation of being outdoors. These products are great, but they can be a bit on the pricier side. Indoor dog potty grass must be replaced regularly to keep the system clean and effective.
1. Fresh Patch Disposable Dog Potty with Real Grass
[easyazon_link identifier="B005G7S6UI" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]The Fresh Patch potty system[/easyazon_link] is easy and very convenient. The grass patch is sent in a cardboard tray that acts as the base of the potty.
Once you remove the lid, it's ready for your dog to use. However, you can slip the entire unit into another base if you want to use the system indoors. The grass is hydroponically grown and very thick. Once the grass dies out, you can toss the entire product in the trash and get a new patch.
2. DoggieLawn Disposable Real Grass Dog Potty
If you're looking for an eco-friendly alternative to traditional puppy pads, take a look at [easyazon_link identifier="B00761ZXQW" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]this disposable dog potty from DoggieLawn.[/easyazon_link]
It features real grass that's cut to fit into a recyclable cardboard tray. There's very little setup or maintenance to worry about. Once you remove the lid, it's ready to go.
The patch of grass measures approximately 24 inches long by 21 inches wide. DoggieLawn is also offering free training consultation so that you can teach your pup to use the patch comfortably.
What is an Indoor Dog Potty?
As the name implies, it's a place for your go to use the bathroom inside your home. They're very similar in function to cat litter boxes. Your dog can urinate and make stool on the artificial surface.
Like litter boxes, they require vigilant care. You will need to clean the potty on a regular basis and sanitize it to avoid odors.
* These systems should not be mistaken for traditional potty pads.
[easyazon_link keywords="potty pads" locale="US" tag="dailydogg-20"]Training pads[/easyazon_link] are often used by new dog owners looking to housetrain their pups. While they work similarly, they're much more complex. They tend to last for much longer and are designed for prolonged use.
The Different Types of Indoor Potty Systems Available.
Grates
Grates are one of the most affordable options. Most are made of plastic and feature an elevated design. The indoor potty area contains holes or slots. This allows urine to drain down into the collection area. As for solid waste, the potty area catches it like a screen so that it's easy to pick up for disposal.
Litter Boxes
Litter boxes are simple in design. They typically have raised sides and an entrance lip. The sides help to keep the absorbent material contained. These boxes can be used with canine litter, pee pads, or newspaper.
Synthetic Grass
These types of indoor systems use high-quality synthetic grass. It looks and feels like real grass. The synthetic grass pad is designed to simulate an outdoor environment. The grass works similarly to grates. Urine flows down while stool stays on top for easy cleaning.
* One thing to note about synthetic grass products is that it requires a lot of maintenance. While they often have odor-neutralizing features, they need to be cleaned quite frequently.
Real Grass
Real grass potty systems are great if you want to bring the outdoors in. A small patch of live grass is placed over a plastic, cardboard, or metal base. The grass makes it easier for pups to get used to. Not only that, but grass naturally keeps odor and bacteria at bay.
Another great thing about grass systems is that they're relatively easy to maintain. Once the patch of grass has died, simply toss it out and switch it for a new patch. The main downside of these systems is that they have the added recurring cost of grass replacement.
Why Use an Indoor Dog Potty System?
There are a number of reasons why you may want to consider using an indoor system. These products are very versatile and can help out a lot of dogs who aren't willing or able to use the bathroom by traditional means.
Limited Outdoor Access
One of the biggest reasons that owners choose an indoor system is that they simply don't have access to an outdoor space. In larger cities, highrise condos and sprawling apartment complexes are the norm.
While many properties do have a dedicated pet area, it's not always the best place for a dog. They're used by many animals. Furthermore, it may take a few minutes to get to the spot. If your dog really has to go, they can have an accident on the way there.
Indoor systems give your dog a chance to go whenever they need to. Many owners place the system outside on a deck or balcony. This helps to keep the odor out of the house and gives your dog some fresh air.
Independence
If you work a busy schedule, an indoor system is a great solution. Your dog won't have to wait for you to get home to do their business.
They can retain their independence and go whenever they need.
Not only is this better for their overall health and happiness, but it can also prevent a lot of accidental messes.
House Training
If you're still training a young pup or adult dog, an indoor system may help with the process. Many people use pads and slowly transition their dog outside. Indoor dog toilets can be used for the same purpose.
Most dogs will prefer to use the indoor toilet instead of making a mess on the floor. As a result, the potty system can be the go-to place to do their business if they have the urge to go when you're not around.
Mobility Issues
Some dogs simply can't go outside. Whether it's because of a recent injury, debilitating joint issues, or a tall flight of stairs that's getting in the way, an indoor potty system can make all the difference. This even applies to owners.
These systems are a great solution for elderly owners who can't take their dogs on long walks.
Medical Issues
Many medical issues can affect the way your dog urinates and defecates. Your dog might not be able to control their body. This often happens with senior dogs. Without a place to void their systems, these dogs will have accidents.
Indoor dog toilets are easy to use. You can place it in a convenient spot so that your dog doesn't have to work as hard to use it. While it may seem like a small change, your dog will appreciate the comfort it brings.
How Often Should an Indoor Dog Toilet Be Cleaned?
Proper cleaning and sanitation are the most important aspects of owning an indoor dog toilet. It's important to remember that dog feces and urine contains bacteria and microorganisms.
If they're not taken care of effectively, the bacteria can have a big effect on the entire home. Dogs can get ill or catch diseases. Humans in the house are even susceptible to illness.
It's best to clean the system at least once a day. If it's possible, it's recommended that the system is cleaned every time your dog uses it. Some products are very easy to keep clean. Real grass pads can be tossed out. If you have a plastic or metal product, you can use hot water or soap to clean the system.
Simply empty the contents into your home's toilet and rinse the container out. It's also recommended that you use a pet-friendly cleaner to take care of bacteria. You should never use harsh chemicals on products that your dog interacts with.
Indoor Dog Potty Training
An indoor potty system is only effective if your dog uses it. Dogs are more inclined to go outside than use a foreign product they've never seen before. You'll have to train your dog to use the dog toilet to see success. Here are some tips.
Start as Soon as Possible
House training should start as soon as you bring your pup home. This applies to both puppies and adult dogs. Introduce the indoor potty to your pup. Let them take a good look around and smell the area. Use a happy and inviting voice to let them know that this is a good area.
Follow a Routine
Dogs thrive on schedules. Keep an eye out on your dog and take note of when they typically want to use the bathroom. It's a good idea to keep feeding times the same each day. Stick with a set schedule so that they get accustomed to using the indoor toilet.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is always preferred over punishment. Whenever your dog uses the potty system, award them with a treat and loving words. This will teach your dog that using the system is a good thing.
Never hit or yell at your dog. This may have an adverse effect on your training. Instead of wanting to use the potty, they'll associate it with bad feelings.
Over to You
All in all, indoor dog potty systems can be great for many owners. They give your pup more freedom to go when they need to. With proper training, your dog will have no problem doing their business on these products.