Best Dog & Puppy Pee Pads: Top 5 Compared

Compare top 5 dog & puppy pee pads: sizes, absorbency, leak protection, odor control, backing & value to find the best fit for training, travel, seniors & more.

You’ve got a solid lineup of puppy and dog pads to choose from, and it can feel overwhelming to pick the right one for your situation. Whether you’re eyeing the extra-large 34″ x 36″ bulk pack for a big dog or the smaller, super-absorbent 24″ x 20″ 100-count option for frequent training sessions, you want pads that actually hold up, control smell, and don’t leak when you need them to. I’ll walk you through how these options compare on size, absorbency, odor control, backing quality, and overall value so you can decide which fits your routine and your dog’s needs.

These kinds of disposable potty pads have come a long way from the days of newspapers or basic cloths on the floor. Over the last few decades manufacturers added features like super-absorbent polymers (SAP) to lock in liquid, waterproof backings and full-edge wrapping to prevent side leaks, quick-dry tops to keep paws and bedding dry, and odor-control technologies (including activated charcoal in some pads) to reduce unpleasant smells. The result is greater convenience and hygiene: they make housebreaking, travel, crate training, care for senior or recovering dogs, and protecting floors or furniture much easier and cleaner than older methods.

In the rest of the article you’ll get a closer look at each pad — from the large 34″ x 36″ leak-proof bulk pack to the Gardner Pet XL, the charcoal-treated varieties, and the high-count SAP option — with practical notes on absorbency, sizing, leak protection, scent control, adhesive tabs, and cost-per-pad. By the end, you should have a clear idea of which pad suits your dog’s size, training stage, and your budget so you can pick one with confidence.

Large Disposable Dog Training Pads — 34″ x 36″, 50-count; leak-proof, quick-dry, heavy-duty absorbent potty pads for dogs and puppies

Dog Pads Large Pet Pee Pads for Dogs  Puppy Training 34 x 36 Potty Pads for Dogs [50-COUNT] Leak-Proof Dog and Puppy Pads - Quick-Dry Surface - Heavy Duty Absorbent Disposable Dog Wee Pad Bulk Pack

This image is property of Amazon.com.

These large 34″ x 36″ dog pads (50-COUNT) are made for pet owners who need reliable indoor potty solutions for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs left home alone. You’ll use them for house training, temporary setups during bad weather, crate training, travel, or protecting floors under pet beds and food bowls. Because they are Heavy Duty Absorbent and have a Quick-Dry Surface, they work well for medium and large breeds and multi-pet households.

You’ll appreciate the combination of MAXIMUM ABSORBENCY and 100% LEAK RESISTANT protection. The layered core padding with polymer beads draws moisture in fast, reducing puddles and soggy surfaces. The built-in attractant helps guide your puppy to the target area, making training less stressful. The pads also provide ODOR CONTROL, keeping your living space fresher between changes.

The primary purpose of these potty pads is to provide a disposable, hygienic surface that absorbs urine quickly and prevents damage to floors. Key features include:

  • Polymer bead technology for rapid liquid absorption and reduced wetness.
  • Protective PE film that creates a 100% LEAK RESISTANT barrier to stop seepage.
  • Built-in puppy attractant that encourages correct use and speeds training.
  • Odor neutralizing action from the polymer beads to keep smells minimal.
  • Generous size of 34″ x 36″ to cover more floor area and handle larger pets.
  • Disposable and available in a 50-COUNT bulk pack for convenience.

You’ll find these pads useful whether you’re training a new puppy, managing an aging dog, or need a backup when outdoor options aren’t available. The Disposable Dog Wee Pad design simplifies cleanup—just fold and discard.

These pads deliver solid performance for disposable training aids. The multi-layer construction balances absorption speed and capacity, so the top layer stays relatively dry while the core locks moisture away. The PE backing is sturdy and prevents leaks on most surfaces, protecting hardwood, tile, and laminate floors. The attractant is subtle but effective; many users report quicker housetraining progress when consistently using these pads. While disposable by nature, the materials feel premium for single-use pads and hold up well when fully saturated.

Pros:

  • Maximum Absorbency with polymer beads minimizes wetness.
  • 100% Leak Resistant backing protects floors from accidents.
  • Built-in puppy attractant aids training success.
  • Odor Control reduces lingering smells between changes.
  • Large 34″ x 36″ size suitable for bigger dogs or multiple pets.
  • Convenient 50-COUNT pack for frequent use or multi-pet homes.

Cons:

  • Disposable design creates ongoing waste and recurring cost.
  • Attractant may not work for every dog; you might need supplementary training methods.
  • Some heavy chewers may tear pads if left unattended.
  • Bulk packs require storage space and may be more than casual users need.

You’ll likely find these pads a dependable option if you want a no-fuss, effective way to manage indoor potty needs. Their blend of absorbency, leak protection, and odor control makes them a practical choice for everyday training and accident management.

A few tips: place a fresh pad in a consistent spot to reinforce the built-in attractant, change pads promptly to maintain Odor Control, and fold used pads before disposal to contain moisture. For longer trips consider layering two pads for extra absorbency, or pair the pads with training treats and positive reinforcement to speed progress. If sustainability concerns matter, balance convenience with occasional washable training mats for daytime use while relying on disposable pads overnight or during travel. You’ll enjoy simpler, cleaner routines.

Large Disposable Dog Training Pads — 34 x 36, 50-count; leak-proof, quick-dry, heavy-duty absorbent potty pads for dogs and puppies

Gardner Pet XL Disposable Puppy Pads — 28″ x 30″, 30-pack; Extra-thick, super-absorbent, leak-proof with full-edge protection

Gardner Pet Disposable Puppy Pads XL, 28 x 30 Dog Pee Pads for Dogs, Super Absorbent  Leak-Proof Full Edge-Wrapping Extra Thick Dog Potty Training Pads (30 Count)

This image is property of Amazon.com.

You’ll find the Gardner Pet Disposable Puppy Pads XL especially useful if you’re potty training a new puppy, caring for a senior or incontinent pet, or need a reliable disposable option for travel and crates. The extra large (28″ x 30″) size gives you more coverage than standard pads, making it a great choice for larger breeds or for placing under food and water bowls to catch spills. If you want to protect floors, carpets, car seats, or create a tidy pee zone in a playpen or crate, these pads are designed to be your go-to solution.

See also  Puppy Pads Comparison: Regular, XL & XXL Tested

You’ll appreciate the double leak-proof design — four side barriers with extended edges act like a little moat to keep liquid from running off. The extra thick 6-layer core and high polymer material turn liquid into gel fast, so your pet’s paws and belly stay dry and odors are reduced. The tear-proof heavy duty PE waterproof backing prevents leaks through to floors or carpets. An added playful touch: the back print shows when the pad is wet, which can make potty training feel less like a chore and more like a small celebration.

The primary purpose of the Gardner Pet Disposable Puppy Pads XL is to provide a super absorbent, leak-proof surface for indoor potty needs and cleanup. Key features include:

  • Size: 28″ x 30″ XL for broader coverage.
  • Construction: 6-layer layered core for increased absorption and thickness.
  • Leak protection: Full edge-wrapping and four side barriers to prevent side spills.
  • Backing: Heavy duty PE waterproof membrane that is tear-resistant.
  • Absorbency tech: High polymer material that converts liquid to gel for quick drying and odor control.
  • Versatility: Works for puppy training, senior/incontinence care, post-partum use, and even for small pets like kittens or rabbits.
  • Quantity: Typically sold in counts such as 30 pads, giving you enough supply for regular use.

These pads are disposable and built to lock in moisture quickly, so you don’t have to worry about frequent soggy messes or lingering smells.

The build quality feels thoughtfully engineered for everyday pet owners. The extra thickening and layered core give the pads a substantial feel; they don’t collapse under a pet’s weight the way thinner pads sometimes do. The full edge-wrapping and side barriers are practical — you’ll notice fewer side leaks than with standard pads. The gel-conversion system means liquid is absorbed and contained quickly, which keeps paws and surrounding areas cleaner. As with any disposable pad, you should replace it once it’s saturated; for heavy use or multiple accidents, don’t expect a single pad to hold indefinitely. Also consider the environmental trade-off of disposables versus washable options if sustainability is a priority for you.

Pros:

  • Double leak-proof design with four side barriers reduces side spills.
  • Super absorbent 6-layer core converts liquid to gel quickly for quick drying and odor control.
  • Extra large (28″ x 30″) offers wide coverage for bigger dogs or multi-spot protection.
  • Tear-proof PE backing protects floors and carpets.
  • Fun wet-activated print adds personality during training.

Cons:

  • Disposable nature means ongoing replacement costs and environmental waste.
  • Very large or multiple accidents may still require frequent changes.
  • If you prefer reusable pads, these aren’t that option.

If you want a reliable, leak-proof, super absorbent disposable pad that makes training and cleanup easier, these XL pads are worth trying. They give you size, absorbency, and protection — plus a little bit of fun while your pet learns where to go.

Gardner Pet XL Disposable Puppy Pads — 28 x 30, 30-pack; Extra-thick, super-absorbent, leak-proof with full-edge protection

Charcoal Odor-Control Extra-Large Dog Pee Pads — 28 x 34 in, 30 Disposable Puppy Training Pads

Charcoal Dog Pee Pads Extra Large 28“x34”, Puppy Pads XL 30 Count, Potty Pads for Dogs, Disposable Urine Bed Pads for Odor-Control, X-Large Piddle Underpads, Training Liners for Housebreaking

These Charcoal Dog Pee Pads Extra Large 28″x34″ are designed to make housebreaking and indoor potty management easier for you and your pet. You’ll find them most useful for puppy training, senior dogs, dogs recovering from surgery, or when you need a reliable option for crate, kennel, or travel use.

  • When you’re teaching a puppy where to go indoors.
  • For elderly or incontinent dogs who need frequent protection.
  • Under crates, carriers, or pet beds to protect floors and furniture.
  • For apartment living, rainy days, or overnight protection.

You’ll appreciate how thoughtfully these pads balance capacity, odor control, and leak protection. The 6-layer construction with a super-absorbent polymer converts liquid to gel quickly, and the activated charcoal layer helps neutralize smells so your home stays fresher between changes. The extra large 28″x34″ size gives you more surface area—use one by itself or line a larger space by laying multiple pads together.

  • High absorption: Each pad holds up to 7 cups of liquid.
  • Odor control: 100% activated carbon reduces unpleasant smells.
  • Leak protection: Black waterproof backing keeps floors safe.
  • Quick-dry surface: Diamond-quilted top helps fluid flow into the core fast.

This product is a disposable training and protective pad intended to make pet cleanup simple and hygienic. Key features include:

  • Size & quantity: Extra Large 28″x34″, 30 Count per bag—good value for multi-dog households or frequent use.
  • 6-layer construction: Multiple layers work together to wick, absorb, and lock urine away from the surface.
  • Super-absorbent polymer (SAP): Quickly turns fluid into gel to prevent pooling and reduce overflow.
  • Diamond-quilted surface: Guides liquid into the core smoothly and helps minimize tracking.
  • Waterproof black plastic layer: Keeps moisture off floors and furniture and is less visually intrusive than white backing.
  • Activated charcoal: Built-in odor control that’s harmless and non-irritating to pets—especially helpful for indoor use.

You’ll spend less time cleaning and worrying about accidents. The pads are disposable and reduce the need for repeated laundering. Because they’re larger and more absorbent than many standard pads, you’ll change them less frequently, which is convenient during busy days or overnight.

The overall build quality is solid for a disposable product. The 6-layer design feels substantial underfoot, and the quick-dry action is noticeable—liquid disappears into the core almost immediately. The diamond-quilted top helps maintain a drier surface, which is comforting for puppies who dislike standing in wet spots. While they’re not reusable, the materials and performance make them feel dependable for their intended disposable use.

  • Absorption capacity is excellent for the size—up to 7 cups handles many accidents without leakage.
  • Odor control from activated carbon is effective for typical home use.
  • The black waterproof layer is discreet and durable, but you should still replace pads promptly to maintain hygiene.

Pros:

  • Extra large 28″x34″ gives broader coverage.
  • Holds up to 7 cups—very absorbent.
  • Activated charcoal for effective odor control.
  • Leak-proof black backing protects floors.
  • Diamond-quilted surface speeds liquid penetration.

Cons:

  • Disposable nature means ongoing cost if you use them constantly.
  • Thicker size may be bulkier to pack for travel.
  • May not be eco-friendly compared with washable pads.

If you want a reliable, super absorbent, and odor-controlling disposable pad for training or protection, these Puppy Pads XL 30 Count are a practical choice that helps keep your home cleaner and your pup more comfortable.

Charcoal Odor-Control Extra-Large Dog Pee Pads — 28 x 34 in, 30 Disposable Puppy Training Pads

CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads — Extra-Large (28 x 34 in), 40 Disposable Super-Absorbent, Quick-Dry, Odor-Control, Leak-Proof Pads with Adhesive Tabs

CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads with Adhesive Tabs, 28x34in Extra Large Pee Pads for Dogs, Odor-Control Super Absorbent Quick-Dry Leak-Proof, Disposable (40 Counts)

This image is property of Amazon.com.

See also  10 Steps to Simple Puppy Training Book Review

The CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads are designed for pet owners who need reliable, extra large pee pads for potty training, travel, or managing incontinence. If you have a puppy just learning where to go, a senior dog with bladder issues, or you’re protecting a crate, bed, or car seat, these 28x34in Extra Large pads give you a big, dependable surface so you don’t have to worry about missed spots.

You’ll reach for these pads when training indoors, during rainy days when walks aren’t possible, or when you’re away and need a hygienic solution for your dog’s bathroom needs. The Disposable (40 Counts) pack gives you an economical supply for daily use.

You’ll appreciate the blend of convenience and performance. The Activated Carbon Odor Control keeps smells from taking over your home—activated carbon embedded in the pad neutralizes and absorbs odors rather than just masking them. The adhesive backing strips help the pad stay put, so your pup can’t drag or bunch it up during use. For busy households, that kind of reliability makes training and cleanup much easier.

The non-woven top layer feels dry and comfortable under your dog’s paws, thanks to the Instant Absorption Technology and 3D diamond quilting that draw moisture away quickly. That means fewer wet footprints and a cleaner, more comfortable experience for both you and your pet.

These pads are purpose-built to absorb, lock in moisture, and control odor while protecting floors. The 6-Layer Super-Absorbent Design includes:

  • A non-woven top layer for rapid absorption and comfort
  • 3D diamond quilting to direct liquid flow
  • An activated carbon layer to neutralize smells
  • A super-absorbent polymer core that holds 4 to 12 cups of liquid depending on use
  • A waterproof PE backing to prevent leaks and floor damage
  • A 2.2-inch border to reduce overflow

You get both fast absorption and durable leak protection, which is ideal when you want minimal cleanup and maximum peace of mind.

These pads come in multiple sizes, but the 28x34in is great for medium to large dogs or for covering larger areas like carrier floors or small couches. With count options ranging from 25 to 100, you can choose the pack size that fits your routine and budget.

The construction feels thoughtful and sturdy. The waterproof backing and diamond quilting work together to keep moisture locked away from surfaces, while the activated carbon genuinely reduces odors over time. You’ll notice fewer leaks and less smell, even with repeated use during training phases.

In everyday use, these pads stand up well to active puppies and senior dogs alike. The adhesive tabs really help prevent shifting, and the quick-dry top keeps the surface feeling drier for longer. For disposable pads, they strike a good balance between absorbency and cost-effectiveness.

  • Activated Carbon Odor Control neutralizes smells, not just masks them

  • 6-Layer Super-Absorbent Design holds 4–12 cups of liquid

  • Instant Absorption Technology reduces wet footprints and accelerates drying

  • Leak-proof PE backing and 2.2-inch border provide strong protection

  • Adhesive backing strips keep the pad in place

  • Available in multiple sizes and counts for flexibility and value

  • Disposable design means ongoing cost and waste if used long-term

  • Large size may be overkill for very small breeds or tiny spaces

  • Some high-volume pets might saturate a pad faster than expected, requiring more frequent changes

If you want a high-capacity, odor-controlling, and easy-to-use disposable pad that makes training and in-home care simpler, these CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads are a strong option that gives you practical performance and solid value.

CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads — Extra-Large (28 x 34 in), 40 Disposable Super-Absorbent, Quick-Dry, Odor-Control, Leak-Proof Pads with Adhesive Tabs

Puppy Training Pads — 100 count (24″ x 20″), super-absorbent, leak-proof, quick-dry with odor control and adhesive strips

Puppy Pads Premium SAP with Odor Control Technology – 100 Count, 24 x 20, Super Absorbent, Leak-Proof, Quick Dry - Puppy Pad, Training Pad, Pee Pad with Adhesive Strips

This image is property of Amazon.com.

This pack is made for pet owners who need a reliable solution for puppy training, elderly or incontinent small dogs, and caregivers handling multiple pets. If you have a puppy, a dog under 20 lbs, or you live in an apartment or use crates, these pads give you a predictable, sanitary place for your pet to go.

You’ll reach for these pads during house-training sessions, long workdays when you can’t let your dog out, overnight use in a crate, or as a backup inside on rainy days. The 100 count supply makes them handy when you want a no-fuss, disposable option that lasts.

What makes this pad stand out is the Premium Diaper-Grade Absorption Technology—the same high-quality SAP used in top baby diapers. That means each pad is super absorbent, quick dry, and better at odor control than pulp-based competitors. You’re getting reliable performance that protects floors and keeps your home fresher.

You’ll notice fewer messy cleanups and less lingering smell. Because the SAP particles are smaller and rounded, the pad resists punctures and leakage — which translates to fewer ruined floors or furniture and a cleaner living space. The included adhesive strips help the pad stay put in a crate or on tiled floors, so your puppy isn’t dragging it around.

These pads use advanced superabsorbent polymer (SAP) to lock liquids into a gel quickly. That rapid locking action prevents moisture from spreading across the pad or soaking through the backsheet. The design focuses on containing odor at the source rather than merely absorbing it, so your room smells fresher after repeated uses.

  • Size: approximately 24″ x 20″ (listed model: 23.62″ x 19.69″ / 60 x 50 cm)
  • Count: 100 pads per pack
  • Capacity: up to 50 ml (1.7 oz) per use; often allows up to 7 uses depending on pet and situation
  • Target: Small dogs up to 20 lbs
  • Features: leak-proof backsheet, quick dry surface, adhesive strips, and odor-locking SAP

The materials feel premium for a disposable product. The diaper-grade SAP makes a tangible difference: the surface dries faster and the interior gels up instead of pooling. The backsheet is durable and resists punctures, helping keep floors safe. Adhesive strips are effective when you want the pad to stay in place, though on very textured surfaces you may need a bit of extra tape.

You’ll find the pad reliable during multi-use days and particularly strong at odor suppression compared to basic pulp pads. For puppies who go small, the pad can handle several uses before you need to swap it out, which stretches the value. For heavier or larger dogs, you’ll want a larger pad, but for the stated small-breed audience, this delivers consistent, mess-free performance.

  • Premium SAP for superior absorption and odor control

  • Leak-proof backsheet protects floors

  • Quick dry surface reduces tracking and mess

  • Generous 100 count value pack

  • Adhesive strips keep pads in place in crates or on tile

  • Sized and rated for small dogs up to 20 lbs

  • Capacity (~50 ml) limits use to small breeds; not ideal for medium/large dogs

  • Adhesive may not stick well to very rough or uneven surfaces

  • Disposable nature creates ongoing cost and waste compared to washable options

See also  The Best Gravity Food Dispenser Options for Hassle-Free Pet Feeding

If you want super absorbent, leak-proof training pads that focus on odor control and convenience, these pads are a solid choice for small dogs and busy pet parents.

Puppy Training Pads — 100 count (24 x 20), super-absorbent, leak-proof, quick-dry with odor control and adhesive strips

Comparison — quick summary to help you choose

You’re comparing five popular disposable puppy/dog pads. Below I explain the key specifications you’ll see in the table and what they mean for your home, then I give a side‑by‑side table so you can quickly spot differences.

What the specs mean for you

  • Size (W x L): pick a pad that covers the area you need (crate, playpen, bathroom corner). Bigger pads reduce spills and give large dogs more room.
  • Count: how many pads in the pack — helps you estimate cost and storage needs.
  • Layers / Core tech: more layers and a super-absorbent core (SAP or polymer beads) generally mean faster wicking and higher capacity.
  • Absorbency (cups / ml): indicates how much liquid a pad can lock away. More capacity helps with multiple/surprising accidents or larger dogs.
  • Leak-proof features / Backsheet: a strong PE/plastic backsheet and edge barriers prevent floor damage.
  • Odor control: activated carbon or odor-locking SAP reduces smell, especially important if you leave pads down for a while.
  • Adhesive strips / Attractant: adhesive keeps the pad from slipping; an attractant helps some puppies find the pad.
  • Best for: suggested pet size/use case (training, travel, incontinence, crates).

Product comparison table

Product (name) Size (W x L) Count Layers / Core tech Absorbency (reported) Leak‑proof / backing Odor control Adhesive / Attractant Best for / Notes
Dog Pads Large Pet Pee Pads — 34″ x 36″ (50-count) 34″ x 36″ 50 Polymer bead / layered core (quick-dry) Not specified (described as “maximum absorbency”) PE film backsheet — 100% leak resistant Polymer beads neutralize odors Built‑in puppy attractant (infused) — no adhesive mentioned Large size — training, crate or home protection; attractant helps housetraining
Gardner Pet Disposable Puppy Pads XL — 28″ x 30″ (30-count) 28″ x 30″ 30 6-layer layered core, extra thick Not specified (extra thickened, enhanced capacity) Heavy-duty PE waterproof membrane; 4-side barriers / extended edges (double leak-proof) Quick-dry polymer beads reduce odor No adhesive called out; decorative back print (shows when wet) Families who want extra thick, highly protective pads for frequent use
Charcoal Dog Pee Pads — 28″ x 34″ (30-count) 28″ x 34″ 30 6-layer with activated charcoal Up to ~7 cups (manufacturer claim) Waterproof black plastic layer Activated charcoal (neutralizes odors) No adhesive mentioned Extra-large charcoal pads — good for odor control and larger dogs/areas
CROCI Charcoal Puppy Pads w/ Adhesive Tabs — 28″ x 34″ (40-count) 28″ x 34″ 40 6-layer (non-woven top, activated carbon layer, SAP core) Manufacturer range 4–12 cups (varies by size/version) Waterproof PE backing; 2.2″ border to prevent overflow Activated carbon layer traps odors Adhesive backing strips to secure pad in place Great for indoor use where odor and pad shifting are concerns
Puppy Pads Premium SAP w/ Odor Control — 23.6″ x 19.7″ (100-count) 23.6″ x 19.7″ 100 Premium diaper-grade SAP (small, rounded particles) ~50 ml (1.7 oz) per use; designed for up to ~7 uses for small dogs Leak-resistant backsheet; SAP design reduces puncture risk SAP locks in odor (superior odor locking) Adhesive strips mentioned Best for small dogs (up to ~20 lb), crates, long days away; very economical pack

Quick takeaways for you

  • If you need large coverage for medium/large dogs, the 34″ x 36″ and 28″ x 34″ options give you the most surface area.
  • For odor control, charcoal / activated carbon pads (Charcoal and CROCI) are the best choices.
  • If you need pads that won’t slip, choose CROCI (adhesive strips) or the Premium SAP with adhesive.
  • For small dogs or crate use and the best value-per-pad, the Premium SAP 100‑pack is designed for smaller pets and frequent use.
  • If you want a pad that actively helps train your puppy to go in the right spot, the 34″ x 36″ pad with a built‑in attractant is useful.

If you want, I can:

  • Calculate estimated cost per pad if you give prices,
  • Recommend the best pad for a specific dog size/behavior,
  • Or create a printable checklist to help you test these pads at home. Which would help you most?

Conclusion

You’ve looked at five solid disposable puppy/pee-pad options, each with its own trade-offs. Overall, these pads will save you time during house-training, help with incontinence, and protect floors — but you’ll want to match pad size, absorbency and count to your dog’s needs to avoid leaks, odor or unnecessary waste.

Quick roundup of each pad

  • Dog Pads Large 34″ x 36″ (50-count) — Excellent for large dogs or multi-day use: very big footprint and good absorbency. Drawback: bulkier and more costly per pad; may be overkill for small breeds.
  • Gardner Pet XL 28″ x 30″ (30-count) — Thick, full edge-wrapping and extra absorbent; good leak protection for medium to large dogs. Drawback: fewer pads per pack and can be pricier than thinner options.
  • Charcoal Dog Pee Pads 28″ x 34″ (30-count) — Great odor control thanks to charcoal layer; roomy size for medium/large dogs. Drawback: some users notice a faint chemical scent initially.
  • CROCI Charcoal 28″ x 34″ with adhesive tabs (40-count) — Good balance of odor control, absorbency and a higher count; adhesive tabs help keep the pad in place. Drawback: tabs sometimes lose their grip on certain surfaces.
  • Puppy Pads Premium SAP 24″ x 20″ (100-count) — Best value per pad and ideal for small puppies, crates or travel; high count means lower cost-per-use. Drawback: too small for medium/large dogs and lighter pads can saturate faster.

Common drawbacks to be aware of

  • Size matters: small pads saturate quickly with larger breeds and can lead to leaks.
  • Adhesive tabs aren’t foolproof: may not stick to all flooring types.
  • Odor-control pads sometimes have an initial scent that fades over time.
  • Thicker pads are more protective but cost more and create more waste.
  • Disposable pads add recurring cost and environmental impact.

Who should pick which pad

  • If you have a large dog or need a wide coverage area: choose the 34″ x 36″ 50-count pads.
  • If you want maximum leak protection and durability: go with the Gardner Pet XL (28″ x 30″) extra-thick pads.
  • If odor control is your priority (apartments or close quarters): pick one of the charcoal pads (CROCI or the 28″x34″ charcoal option).
  • If you’re on a budget, training many puppies, or need crate/travel pads: the 24″ x 20″ 100-count SAP pads are the practical choice.
  • For senior or incontinent dogs: favor extra-thick, edge-wrapped pads (Gardner) or the largest size available to minimize leaks.

Quick tips for getting the best results

  • Match pad size to your dog’s size and frequency of use.
  • Place pads on non-slip surfaces or use a tray to prevent shifting.
  • Buy a small test pack first to confirm absorbency, fit and smell.
  • Change pads promptly to reduce odor and encourage use.
  • Consider reusable pads if you’re worried about cost or environmental impact.

Pick the pad that fits your dog’s size and your routine — that will save you the most time and frustration.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.