If you have a large dog recovering from surgery, a senior with mobility issues, or you're living in a high-rise apartment, pee pads can be a genuine lifesaver. While many people associate pee pads with small breeds or puppies, they're equally valuable for big dogs in the right situations—whether it's extreme weather, temporary indoor needs, or managing age-related incontinence.
Important note: If your house-trained dog suddenly starts having accidents, consult your veterinarian. New incontinence can signal urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, or other health issues that need medical attention.
Size and Absorbency for Big Breeds
When it comes to large dogs, pad dimensions matter significantly. A standard puppy pad simply won't cut it for a 70-pound Labrador or 100-pound German Shepherd.
Common size tiers for large dogs:
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L pads (22×23 inches): Suitable for puppies, house training, crates, or small spaces
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XL pads (28×34 inches): Better for medium dogs, indoor days, or longer stretches between walks
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3XL pads (36×36 inches): Designed for multi-dog homes, larger breeds, senior pets, or full-day coverage
Beyond dimensions, absorbency capacity matters. Large dogs produce significantly more urine than small breeds—some pads list liquid capacity in cups, which helps you gauge whether they'll handle your dog's needs. Look for pads with multi-layer construction and gel cores that lock in moisture quickly.
Pro tip: Adhesive corners and anti-slip backings are essential for big dogs who shuffle, spin, or paw before eliminating. These features keep pads securely in place and prevent bunching that creates mess and discourages use.
Earth Rated's pee pads feature AbsorbShield™+ Technology designed to handle larger volumes while combating odors—critical when you're dealing with the output of a big dog.
Disposable vs Washable Pee Pads
Both options have their place, depending on your situation and priorities.
Disposable pads:
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Quick, convenient cleanup—just roll up and toss
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Gel cores provide excellent absorbency
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No laundry required
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Higher ongoing cost and more waste
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Best for temporary situations like post-surgery recovery or travel
Washable pads:
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Lower long-term cost and environmental impact
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Requires regular laundry and odor management
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Initial investment is higher
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Need multiple pads to rotate during washing
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Best for long-term use with senior dogs or permanent indoor setups
Laundry tips for washable pads: Rinse in hot water immediately after use, pre-treat with enzyme cleaners designed for pet odors, wash in hot water separately from other laundry, and air dry when possible to extend pad life.
For large dogs with incontinence, many owners find disposable pads more practical due to the volume and frequency of changes required.
Setup, Placement and Training
Proper placement makes all the difference in whether your big dog will use pads successfully.
Location matters:
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Choose a quiet, low-traffic area away from food and water bowls
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Ensure easy access—especially important for seniors with mobility issues
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Use hard flooring rather than carpet when possible
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For multi-level homes, consider pads on each floor
How many pads to use:
For large dogs, overlapping two or three standard pads often works better than trying to source massive single pads. This gives your dog adequate coverage and reduces the chance of missing the target.
Training tips:
Start by confining your dog to a smaller area with the pad, gradually expanding their space as they learn. Use positive reinforcement—treats and calm praise—every time they use the pad correctly. For adult dogs accustomed to outdoor elimination, try a "stepping-stone" approach by placing pads near doors initially, maintaining their outdoor preference while providing an indoor backup.
When to replace:
Change disposable pads immediately after use for best results. With washable pads, rotate them out as soon as they're soiled. Big dogs need fresh pads more frequently than small breeds.
Anchoring for big dogs:
Use furniture or baby gates to create boundaries around the pad area. Secure adhesive tabs firmly to the floor. Some owners place pads inside low-sided plastic trays or on rubber mats for extra stability and floor protection.
Cleaning, Odor Control and Safety
Proper cleanup prevents re-marking and keeps your home fresh.
Effective cleaning practices:
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Use enzyme cleaners specifically designed for pet urine—they break down odor-causing compounds that regular cleaners miss
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Wear gloves when handling soiled pads
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Keep pets away from cleaned areas until completely dry
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Wash hands thoroughly after handling pads or cleaning accidents
For washable pads:
Rinse immediately in hot water, use enzyme pre-treatment products, wash separately in hot water with pet-safe detergent, and ensure thorough drying before reuse.
Disposal:
Roll up disposable pads with the soiled side inward, place in a plastic bag to contain odors, and dispose in outdoor trash when possible. Never flush pee pads—they cause serious plumbing blockages.
For quick cleanups around the pad area, Earth Rated's grooming wipes gently remove residue from paws and floors without harsh chemicals.
Alternatives and When to Re-Evaluate
Pee pads aren't the only option for indoor potty solutions.
Alternatives to consider:
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Indoor turf or sod trays: Mimic outdoor elimination more closely, especially appealing to dogs with strong outdoor preferences
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More frequent outdoor breaks: Sometimes the simplest solution is adjusting your schedule
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Dog walkers or pet sitters: Professional help during long work days
When to consult your veterinarian:
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Sudden house-training changes in a previously reliable dog
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Increased water drinking paired with more frequent urination
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Straining, pain, or blood during urination
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Disorientation or confusion beyond normal aging
Some medications, particularly steroids, increase urination frequency. If your dog is on medication and having accidents, discuss alternatives with your vet.
FAQs
Do pee pads work for big dogs?
Yes, pee pads can work well for large dogs when properly sized and placed. The key is choosing pads large enough for your dog's size (36×36 inches or larger for most big breeds), ensuring high absorbency, and training consistently. Pads work especially well for seniors with mobility issues, dogs recovering from surgery, or temporary indoor needs during extreme weather.
What can I use instead of pee pads for dogs?
Alternatives include indoor turf or sod trays that mimic outdoor elimination, artificial grass systems designed for balconies or patios, more frequent outdoor breaks, or hiring dog walkers for midday relief. Some owners use designated washable rugs or towels, though these require more frequent cleaning than purpose-made pads.
What are the most absorbent pee pads for dogs?
The most absorbent pads feature multi-layer construction with gel cores that lock in moisture quickly. Look for pads listing liquid capacity (measured in cups), leak-proof backing, and quick-dry top layers. Earth Rated's pee pads use AbsorbShield™+ Technology specifically designed for high-volume absorption—essential for large breeds.
Are washable pee pads better than regular pee pads for dogs?
It depends on your situation. Washable pads are better for long-term use, reducing ongoing costs and environmental impact. However, they require regular laundry, odor management, and multiple pads to rotate. Disposable pads are better for temporary needs like post-surgery recovery, travel, or situations where frequent changes are necessary. For large dogs with heavy incontinence, many owners find disposable pads more practical.
Supporting Your Big Dog with the Right Tools
Pee pads can absolutely work for large dogs when you choose the right size, place them strategically, and maintain them properly. Whether you're helping a senior dog maintain dignity, supporting post-surgical recovery, or providing backup during extreme weather, pads offer a practical solution that reduces stress for everyone.
The key is matching the pad to your dog's needs—adequate size, high absorbency, and secure placement make all the difference. With patience and consistency, even big dogs can adapt to indoor pottying when circumstances require it.
Looking for pads that can keep up with your big dog? Earth Rated's pee pads feature super-absorbent, quick-drying technology made for real-life messes. Stock up on cleanup essentials at a store near you, and join our community of dog lovers who care about pets, people, and the planet.
