How to Transition Your Shih Tzu from Pad Training to Outdoor Potty Success

Housebreaking is one of the first, and easily one of the most overwhelming tasks, new puppy parents face. But here at Divine Pups, we’ve got a system that makes the whole process easier, cleaner, and smarter from day one. If you’re wondering how to get from pee pads to paw-perfect potty habits outdoors, this one’s for you.

Let’s break it down.

Why We Start Indoors with the Brilliant Pad

Before your pup ever sets paw in your home, they’ve been introduced to the Brilliant Pad system with a grate. This combo doesn’t just keep things clean, it sets the tone for housebreaking success. Here’s why we swear by it:

→ It keeps paws dry and coats clean
Shih Tzus have long, fluffy coats that love to soak up… everything. The grate keeps their paws above the mess, reducing cleanup and keeping things fresh (especially important if you value your floors and your sanity).

→ No more shredded pads
Puppies love tearing up potty pads like they’re getting paid to do it. The grate prevents chewing and ripping, saving you from daily confetti explosions.

→ It creates a consistent potty texture
Consistency is everything in training. The grate’s texture becomes associated with potty time, so your pup starts to feel when it’s time to go, literally.

→ It makes the outdoor transition easier
The grate mimics the idea of a designated “potty zone,” making it way easier for your pup to connect the dots once you move training outside.

Okay, but how do we actually go from pad to outdoors?

Here’s how to make that transition seamless, without any drama (or accidents on your new rug).

Step 1: Move the Grate Outdoors
Choose your potty zone in the yard. Place the grate directly on the grass. This is now your dog’s designated outdoor bathroom, and it still feels familiar thanks to the grate.

Step 2: Harness + Leash Every Time
No free-range wandering. When it’s potty time, leash up your pup and head straight to the grate. You’re in control, and your pup learns this is a focused task, not recess.

Step 3: Use a Consistent Cue
Say “Go potty!” (or your preferred phrase) every time they’re placed on the grate. This cue becomes your superpower, stick with it.

Step 4: Celebrate and Reward
The moment your pup does their business, praise like you mean it and offer a treat. We’re big fans of PawTree’s chewy treats, they’re soft, high-value, and made with clean ingredients.

Step 5: Gradually Remove the Grate
Once your pup reliably goes on the grate outside, start removing it during some potty breaks. Before you know it, they’ll be confidently going straight on the grass, and you’ll barely remember the early days of pads.

Why Pottying on Cue is a Game-Changer

Teaching your dog to go on command isn’t just a party trick, it’s a total lifestyle upgrade.

• No more guessing when they need to go. You say the word, and they know what to do.
  
• Vet visits become less stressful. Need a urine sample? You’ll have it in under two minutes.
  
• It’s essential for service dogs. Cue-based pottying keeps working dogs focused, reliable, and clean in public environments.
  

And whether your pup is headed for a service dog path or just becoming the world’s best family companion, that level of obedience is priceless.

Wait, but won’t they get confused with indoor AND outdoor potty spots?

It’s a fair question, and here’s the answer: not if you do it right.

When used properly, the Brilliant Pad is your puppy’s backup bathroom, perfect for late nights, stormy days, or high-rise living. Your outdoor potty spot is for scheduled breaks, and your pup will quickly understand the difference.

The key is consistency, not location.

Bonus Tip: You’re Not in This Alone

Whether you’re struggling with timing, cues, or just need a confidence boost, we’ve got your back.

We partner with top-tier training resources like Baxter & Bella and My Loyal Hound to give you personalized, expert-level guidance. And of course, we’re always here cheering you on and answering questions along the way.

So… is potty training supposed to be this smooth?

Yep.When you start with a smart foundation and follow it up with consistent, intentional training, potty training becomes something you actually master, not just survive.

If you’re bringing home a Divine Pup, know that they’ve already started this journey before they even come home to you. You just get to keep it going.

Now that’s what we call a brilliant transition. Want to get the Brilliant Pad for your pup? Click HERE to order now!

Ara Hughey

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