Toilet training a puppy takes patience, and puppy pads are a useful tool, especially for flats, cold winter mornings and puppies that are not yet fully vaccinated. A good pad absorbs quickly, stays put and keeps odours in, while a washable pad is a greener choice.
We have compared five puppy toilet training pads currently available on Amazon UK, covering disposable and washable options. We explain who each is best for, what we like and what to watch out for.
Quick Comparison Table
Product | Best For | Price Range | Rating |
Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Pads | Market leader | £9-£11 | 4.5/5 |
Simple Solution Premium Pads (56) | Thick and absorbent | £15-£17 | 4.6/5 |
Bargain Factory Potty Pads (50) | Bulk and cheap | £7-£9 | 4.3/5 |
Magnus Creations Washable Pads | Reusable | £6-£8 | 4.6/5 |
Nobleza Washable Pads (3 Pack) | Reusable set | £8-£9 | 4.5/5 |
The Best Puppy Toilet Training Pads Reviewed
Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Pads
Best for: the best-known pads, with 220,000 ratings
Amazon Basics puppy pads are among the most popular pet products on Amazon UK. They have a five-layer design with a quick-dry surface, and they are leakproof, so they hold urine without soaking through to your floor.
The pads are sold in a range of pack sizes and are a good, dependable choice for training a puppy indoors. An attractant in the top layer helps to draw a puppy to the pad.
The pack we checked costs around £10 and averages 4.5 out of 5 across more than 220,000 ratings.
What we like:
- Huge number of ratings
- Leakproof, five layers
- Range of pack sizes
Worth knowing:
- Disposable, so an ongoing cost
- May slide on smooth floors
Specifications:
- Type: disposable training pads
- Design: 5-layer, leakproof
- Feature: quick-dry surface
- Brand: Amazon Basics
Simple Solution Absorbent Premium Puppy Training Pads (56 Pack)
Best for: a premium, well-rated disposable pad
Simple Solution is a well-known name in puppy training, and its premium pads are thick and absorbent. They are designed to lock away moisture and odour, so the pad stays dry on the surface.
A pack of 56 gives you plenty for the early weeks. The pads are leak-proof, and have an attractant to guide your puppy.
It costs around £16 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across almost 700 ratings.
What we like:
- Thick and absorbent
- Locks away odours
- Good average rating
Worth knowing:
- More expensive per pad
- Fewer ratings than the market leader
Specifications:
- Type: disposable training pads
- Pack: 56
- Feature: leak-proof, odour control
- Brand: Simple Solution
Bargain Factory Pet Potty Training Pads (Pack of 50)
Best for: a lower-cost pad in bulk
Bargain Factory pads are a good option if you want a lower-cost pack in bulk. They have a five-layer construction, a leakproof base and a super-absorbent core.
A pack of 50 is a good size for a new puppy, and the price per pad is low.
It costs around £8 and averages 4.3 out of 5 across more than 1,500 ratings.
What we like:
- Low price
- Five layers
- Bulk pack
Worth knowing:
- Lower average rating
- Thinner than premium pads
Specifications:
- Type: disposable training pads
- Pack: 50
- Feature: super-absorbent
- Brand: Bargain Factory
Magnus Creations Washable Puppy Training Pads (5-Layer)
Best for: a reusable pad that saves money over time
A washable pad is a good option for owners who want to reduce waste. The Magnus Creations pad has five layers and a waterproof backing, and it can be machine washed and reused.
It costs more than a single disposable pad, but over time it works out cheaper. It is also a good choice for older dogs and for travel.
It costs around £7 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across more than 1,000 ratings.
What we like:
- Reusable and washable
- Five layers
- Very good reviews
Worth knowing:
- Needs washing between uses
- Puppy may chew it
Specifications:
- Type: washable training pad
- Design: 5-layer with waterproof backing
- Cleaning: machine washable
- Brand: Magnus Creations
Nobleza Reusable Washable Puppy Pads (3 Pack, 60 x 45cm)
Best for: three washable pads with an anti-slip bottom
The Nobleza set has three washable pads in a medium 60 x 45cm size, with an anti-slip base that keeps them in place. They are absorbent and can be washed in a machine.
A set of three means one can be used while another is in the wash. They are a good choice for owners of small and medium dogs.
They cost around £8 for the set and average 4.5 out of 5 across more than 1,800 ratings.
What we like:
- Three pads
- Anti-slip base
- Machine washable
Worth knowing:
- Smaller than some pads
- Take time to dry
Specifications:
- Type: washable training pads
- Pack: 3
- Size: 60 x 45cm
- Brand: Nobleza
Buying Guide
What to look for when buying puppy training pads
Look for pads with several layers, a leak-proof base and a quick-drying surface. An attractant helps to draw the puppy, and an odour-locking layer helps to keep smells down.
Choose a size that suits your puppy, since a small pad is not much use for a large breed.
Disposable versus washable pads
Disposable pads are convenient and hygienic, but they cost more over time and create waste. Washable pads are cheaper in the long run and greener, but need washing and take time to dry.
Many owners use disposable pads in the early weeks and switch to washable ones later.
Size and age guide
A standard pad of about 55 x 55cm suits small and medium puppies. Large breeds need extra-large pads. Very young puppies need frequent changes, and older puppies can learn to go outside.
Keep the pad in a consistent place, and move it gradually towards the door as your puppy learns.
How much should you spend?
Disposable pads cost around 15 to 30 pence each, depending on the pack. Washable pads cost £7 to £10 for one to three, and last for many washes. Buy a large pack of disposables for the early weeks and one or two washables to follow.
Frequently asked questions
How do puppy pads work?
The puppy learns to relieve itself on the pad, which absorbs the urine. You put the pad in a consistent place, and reward your puppy for using it.
When should I stop using puppy pads?
Most owners switch to outdoor toilet training once the puppy is fully vaccinated and reliable. Move the pad closer to the door, then outside, over a few weeks.
Are washable pads as good as disposable ones?
They work well, but they need more care. You should wash them after use, and they take time to dry. They are also better for the environment.
How often should I change a pad?
After each use, if possible. Puppies may avoid a dirty pad, and it can leave a smell that encourages them to go elsewhere.
My puppy chews the pad. What should I do?
Try a different type of pad, or use a holder or tray. Supervise your puppy, and remove the pad when they are not using it.
Conclusion
For most owners, the Amazon Basics pads are the best starting point, with the largest review record of any pad. The Simple Solution pads are a premium alternative, and the Bargain Factory pack is a low-cost bulk buy.
If you want a greener option, the Magnus Creations and Nobleza washable pads are both very well reviewed. Whichever you choose, be consistent, praise your puppy and be patient.
