When living with our dog in an apartment or condo complex, the main inconvenient is potty time. But an excellent potty solution for apartments is the use of dog grass pads, also known as potty pads or pee pads.
Potty grass pads are patches made of real or synthetic grass that can be placed anywhere inside your apartment or, if you have one, on a balcony or patio.
They are generally rectangular and can be found in various sizes to fit the size and needs of different dog breeds.
There are two types of grass pads: those made with real grass or those that use synthetic turf.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages. But broadly, if your priority is quality and low maintenance, using real grass is the best option. But if it’s the price and durability, synthetic grass is the best for you.
One of the most recommended dog grass pads for apartments made of real grass is the Fresh Patch. But if you prefer synthetic grass, the Downtown Pet Supply Dog Pee Potty Pad is one of the best options.
When you live in an apartment, it is always better to take your dog outside to the bathroom, as this helps him exercise and stay mentally stimulated.
But dog grass pads are a good solution for:
- Potty training older dogs and puppies
- Busy apartment dog owners with irregular schedules
- Senior dogs with incontinence
- When the weather does not allow your dog to go out to potty.
Here is a selection of the 7 best dog grass pads for apartments.
1. Fresh Patch
The Fresh Patch is made of real grass hydroponically grown and dirt-free. This natural grass helps to absorb fluids and eliminate odors.
Also, dogs tend to prefer to go to the bathroom on real grass, which makes potty training easier.
The Fresh Patch is environmentally friendly and safe to use inside an apartment. It doesn’t need to be cleaned or maintained since it is entirely disposable.
It’s recommended to replace it every 1 or 4 weeks. It depends on how often it is used and the size of the dog.
The Fresh Patch measures 16 “x 24” and is perfect for dogs up to 24 pounds. For larger dogs, several units are recommended together.
2. DoggieLawn Real Grass Dog Potty
Made of real hydroponic grass, DoggieLawn is maintenance-free, biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Its use is quite easy. It comes in a cardboard tray which you simply put in the place of your choice.
In addition to being easy to use, the tray is lined to prevent leaks, and the real grass neutralizes odors and absorbs liquids.
The only drawback is that after a while you have to discard it and replace it with a new one. Each one can last between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on the size of your dog and how often he uses it.
Originally intended as an apartment potty solution, it is also frequently used for dogs that have limited access to a yard.
There are in four sizes:
- Standard (20 x 16″): For dogs up to 15lbs.
- Medium (20 x 24″): For dogs up to 30lbs.
- Large (24 x 24″): For dogs up to 50lbs.
- XL (24 x 48″): For dogs 40lbs and over or multiple dogs.
3. Downtown Pet Supply Dog Pee Potty Pad
Very similar to real grass, Downtown Pet Supply Dog Pee Potty Pad is a soft grass treated with anti-microbial odor control, non-toxic and easy to clean.
Perfect for using both indoors and outdoors. Made of a 3-layer system that helps protect indoor floors and is weatherproof ideal for use on patios and balconies.
Under the turfgrass is a tray where the fluids are collected, allowing them to be easily disposed of. This makes it easy to clean and wash.
Depending on the use, it is recommended to replace the grass every 3 or 5 months.
The Potty Pee Turf Grass measures 20 x 25 x 2 inches and weighs 4 pounds, suitable for small, medium and large dogs.
4. PetSafe Pet Loo Portable Indoor/Outdoor Dog Potty
LESS ODOR: The covered waste bin and Wee Sponge powder work together to trap smells and help keep the potty odor-free
The Pet Loo is a synthetic grass toilet that can be used by both dogs and cats.
The urine is filtered through the synthetic grass and is characterized by having a slight angle base that allows the liquids to run down to the collection container preventing it from accumulating at the top and causing bad odors and moisture.
The collection container can be removed and is easy to clean. You can also use the Pee-Pods with Wee Sponge powder (the PestSafe Pet Loo comes with a sample) that are placed in the collection tray.
This accessory absorbs and solidifies liquids allowing easy and odorless disposal.
There are three different sizes:
- Small (21 x 17 x 5”): For small dog breeds
- Medium (24 x 24 x 5”): Para medium dog breeds
- Large (33 x 33 x 5”): For large dog breeds
5. PETMAKER Artificial Grass Bathroom Mat for Puppies and Small Pets
Synthetic plastic grass mat that looks and feels like real grass and with a scent that attracts dogs to use it. It is antimicrobial and odor resistant, as well as being non-toxic and safe for dogs.
It is made with a three-layer system that allows liquids to drain to the collection tray below, allowing the grass always to be dry.
The bottom tray separates, allowing easy cleaning. Just rinse it with soap and water.
The PETMAKER Artificial Grass Bathroom Mat can be used both indoors and outdoors, and its dimensions are 20 x 25 x 1.25 inches, suitable for puppies and small to medium sized breeds.
Final Thoughts
All dogs are different and some are quite fussy. At the end, who decides which is the best grass pad is going to be your dog.
This means that maybe you are going to have to try several options before finding the right one for him.
But it is worth the effort.
Dog grass pads are a great help when you live in an apartment with your dog. Sometimes they are even indispensable.
In those cases and moments when it is not possible to go outside so your dog can do his business, grass pads allow you to offer him a safe and comfortable alternative.
Although we must always remember that using dog grass pads is not an excuse for not taking your dog out to the bathroom when possible.