To facilitate dog care and maintain cleanliness in the house, the use of special hygienic pads is recommended. Such products were first used in Japan. In the US pet products market, they appeared relatively recently, but have already gained great popularity among breeders and domestic dog owners.
In this article, we will discuss why and in what cases dog and puppy pads are used, what types there are, what they are made of, pros and cons, which breeds of dogs can use pads, how to choose the best ones, a rating of manufacturers, size determination, and how to train your pet to use the pad.
Why Hygienic Pads are Needed for Dogs
Hygienic pads for dogs are special mats with a moisture-absorbing layer that retains liquid inside the product. They can be used for various purposes.
In what situations are dog pads used:
- Toilet training a puppy.
- Caring for a sick or elderly dog.
- Protecting car seats when transporting the animal over long distances.
- Setting up a place for childbirth and creating a cozy postnatal corner.
- As lining for a crate or playpen.
It is customary to toilet train domestic dogs during walks outside. Smart animals quickly get used to this rule, the main thing is to maintain the walk schedule. However, there are situations when there is an urgent need for a hygienic pad. For example, when the owner is away from home for a long time and cannot walk the dog at its usual time. They are also necessary for animals during quarantine after illness or vaccination, or when the weather outside is bad, with severe frost or heavy rain. In such situations, a pad will allow your pet to comfortably go to the toilet and maintain freshness and cleanliness in the house.
Which Dog Breeds Can Use Pads
Breeders recommend using pads for toilet training puppies. This will teach the pet cleanliness at home. Hygienic pads can also be used for small decorative dog breeds, which go to the toilet only in warm home conditions.
Here are the breeds that can use pads for toilet needs:
- Bichon Frise;
- Pomeranian;
- Yorkshire Terrier;
- Russian Toy Terrier;
- Pekingese;
- Shih Tzu;
- Chihuahua;
- Toy Poodle;
- Kai Leo;
- Pugs and other small breeds.
Features and Composition
In the assortment of hygiene products for pets, there is a large selection of dog pads. They differ in softness, size, and are classified into two main types: disposable and reusable.
The bottom layer of disposable pads is waterproof, while the outer layer is soft, made from semi-synthetic material and is well-ventilated. Between these layers is a filler, made from polymer granules, cellulose, or a gel base. The number of filler layers can vary. Five-layer pads, which provide uniform distribution of liquid, are particularly popular.
The structure of reusable dog pads:
· The outer layer is a quickly drying knitted fabric. It comes in various colors.
· The second layer is a membrane layer that absorbs liquid well.
· The third layer is an intermediate, waterproof layer.
· The final bottom layer is made from a non-slip knitted fabric.
Pros and Cons of Dog Pads
Hygienic pads for dogs have many advantages, but they also have some disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look.
Pros:
- Absolutely harmless products for animals.
- They retain the smell of feces, preventing foul odors from spreading around the house.
- They are not susceptible to mold and fungi.
- They have non-slip properties.
- They absorb moisture well, even when fully saturated, the pet’s paws remain dry.
- The absorbency of the fabric is up to 2-3 liters.
- They are resistant to tearing.
- Reusable products wash well, do not deform after washing, and dry quickly.
- They have a good aesthetic appearance.
Cons:
- Cheap reusable pee pads may lose their ability to retain unpleasant smells of feces after the first wash, and traces of leaks may remain on the surface.
- Disposable pee pads are not sold individually, you will have to buy a whole pack.
- High cost of high-quality reusable pads.
When and How to Use
Hygienic pads are useful for maintaining cleanliness in the home. They can be used as liners in enclosures and carriers, used for transporting animals during visits to friends, trips to the vet, as well as long trips by car, train, or plane.
Here’s how to use dog pads:
1. The hygienic pad can be laid directly on the floor or on a special toilet tray.
2. Do not cut the pad if it does not fit in the tray by size. This will lead to the loss of its ability to retain moisture and will contribute to the spread of unpleasant odors.
3. Disposable pads are practically used during the care of post-operative, weakened sick, and elderly dogs.
4. Reusable pads should be washed daily. Every 12-24 hours, the product should be changed to a clean one.
5. The maximum lifespan of a good quality reusable pad is 36 months.
Types of Pads for Dogs and Puppies
Pee Pad for dogs are divided into two main types – disposable and reusable. They can be used for both puppies and large dogs. The main thing is to choose the right size of the product and the permissible amount of liquid absorption.
Features of hygienic pads:
1. Disposable pads are designed for one-time use, after which they are disposed of.
2. Reusable pads are designed for frequent use over the period recommended by the manufacturer. To maintain cleanliness and functional properties, such products are regularly hand washed or machine washed. To disinfect the fabric, it is recommended to use special disinfectants for washing.
Reusable hygienic pads are available in a wide range: antibacterial, hypoallergenic, with a moisture indicator, super absorbent, etc. Pads with pheromones, which help to train the dog to the toilet on the liner faster, are particularly popular.
Other types of pads for dogs:
1. Gauze – the simplest and cheapest disposable pads. The bottom part is made of a laminated material that does not allow moisture through.
2. Gel – contain a special gel that effectively absorbs liquids and blocks unpleasant odors.
3. Liners with a sticky layer for good fixation on the surface of the tray.
How to Determine the Right Size
Hygienic pads are chosen according to the size of the pet. For example, standard size products 30×40 cm, 40×60 cm are suitable for small decorative dogs. For representatives of larger breeds, pads of size 60×70 cm and more are chosen.
Main Selection Criteria
When buying hygienic pads for dogs, the owner needs to take into account some nuances.
Things to pay attention to:
1. The quality of the product.
2. The presence of additional functions – antibacterial properties, sticky tapes for attachment to the tray, moisture indicator, etc.
3. Choose the right size of pads, taking into account the breed and anatomical features of the pet.
4. The number of pieces in a pack depending on your needs.
Products from American and European manufacturers are recognized as the most quality. Such pads are the most expensive, but they are worth the money. Similar and more affordable pads are produced by domestic brands. But it is better not to buy Chinese pads and mats, as according to the reviews of many owners, they spread unpleasant odors and quickly become unusable.
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