Best Training Pads for Shetland Sheepdogs

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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Our top pick is Amazon Basics Regular Dog & Puppy Pee Pads — best for Small breed owners who want a reliable and affordable training pad. Why it wins: Affordable and cost-effective.

House-training a Shetland Sheepdog requires careful consideration of their small size and high energy level. With their playful and sensitive nature, it's essential to choose training pads that are both absorbent and attractive to encourage use. Given their tendency to be vocal and energetic, owners need training pads that can keep up with their lively lifestyle. Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to accidents, especially during the initial stages of house-training. Their small bladder size means they can't hold their urine for extended periods, making frequent pad changes necessary. Therefore, training pads with high absorbency and a leak-proof design are crucial to prevent messes and make clean-up easier. The right training pads can make a significant difference in the house-training process, helping to reduce accidents and make the experience less stressful for both the dog and the owner.

What to look for

Pad Size and Absorbency

Shetland Sheepdogs require training pads that are tailored to their small size. Look for pads with high absorbency to prevent leaks and messes. A smaller pad size is also essential to prevent overwhelming the dog and making them less likely to use the pad.

Attractant and Scent

A built-in attractant or scent can encourage your Shetland Sheepdog to use the training pad. This feature is particularly useful for dogs that are sensitive and may be hesitant to use the pad initially.

Leak-Proof Design

A leak-proof design is crucial to prevent accidents and make clean-up easier. Look for training pads with a plastic backing or a non-slip design to keep the pad in place.

Training and Potty Time

Shetland Sheepdogs are highly trainable, but they require consistent and positive reinforcement. Choose training pads that are designed to make potty training easier and more efficient.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Amazon Basics Regular Dog & Puppy Pee Pads	Small breed owners who want a reliable and affordable training pad
2	Simple Solution Training Pads for Dogs	Owners who want a training pad with a focus on potty training
3	OUT! Ultra Absorbent Training Pads	Owners who want a highly absorbent training pad
4	Bulldogology Premium Puppy Pee Pads	Owners who want a premium training pad with advanced features
5	Frisco Extra Large Training & Potty Pads	Owners who want an extra-large training pad for their small breed dog

Amazon Basics Regular Dog & Puppy Pee Pads

Best for Small breed owners who want a reliable and affordable training pad

The Amazon Basics Regular Dog & Puppy Pee Pads are an excellent choice for Shetland Sheepdog owners. They offer a 5-layer leak-proof design and a built-in attractant to encourage use. The pads are also affordable and come in a variety of sizes, including a 22x22 inch option that's perfect for small breeds.

✓ Affordable and cost-effective
✓ 5-layer leak-proof design for mess-free clean-up
✓ Built-in attractant to encourage use

✕ May not be as absorbent as other options

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Simple Solution Training Pads for Dogs

Best for Owners who want a training pad with a focus on potty training

The Simple Solution Training Pads for Dogs are designed to make potty training easier and more efficient. They feature a 5-layer leak-proof design and an attractant infused pad to encourage use. The pads are also treated with aloe vera to help soothe and calm the dog.

✓ Focus on potty training with attractant infused pad
✓ 5-layer leak-proof design for mess-free clean-up
✓ Aloe vera treatment for soothing and calming

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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OUT! Ultra Absorbent Training Pads

Best for Owners who want a highly absorbent training pad

The OUT! Ultra Absorbent Training Pads are designed to provide maximum absorbency and protection against leaks. They feature an ultra-absorbent polymer core and a built-in attractant to encourage use.

✓ Highly absorbent for maximum protection
✓ Ultra-absorbent polymer core for efficient clean-up
✓ Built-in attractant to encourage use

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Bulldogology Premium Puppy Pee Pads

Best for Owners who want a premium training pad with advanced features

The Bulldogology Premium Puppy Pee Pads are a premium option for Shetland Sheepdog owners. They feature a 6-layer premium construction and a charcoal odor absorbing layer to minimize odors. The pads also have a non-slip backing with adhesive tabs to keep them in place.

✓ Premium construction for durability and performance
✓ Charcoal odor absorbing layer for minimized odors
✓ Non-slip backing with adhesive tabs for secure placement

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Frisco Extra Large Training & Potty Pads

Best for Owners who want an extra-large training pad for their small breed dog

The Frisco Extra Large Training & Potty Pads are an excellent choice for Shetland Sheepdog owners who want an extra-large training pad. They feature a 6-layer absorbency and a leak-proof plastic backing to prevent messes. The pads are also treated with an attractant scent to encourage use.

✓ Extra-large size for small breed dogs
✓ 6-layer absorbency for maximum protection
✓ Leak-proof plastic backing for mess-free clean-up

✕ May be too large for very small breeds

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Frequently asked questions

What size training pad is best for my Shetland Sheepdog?

The ideal training pad size for a Shetland Sheepdog will depend on their individual needs and preferences. However, a 22x22 inch or 24x24 inch pad is usually a good starting point for small breeds like the Shetland Sheepdog.

How often should I change the training pad?

It's recommended to change the training pad frequently, ideally every 1-2 hours, or as soon as it's soiled. This will help prevent accidents and make clean-up easier.

Can I use training pads for outdoor potty training?

While training pads can be used for outdoor potty training, it's essential to choose a pad that's specifically designed for outdoor use. These pads are usually more durable and weather-resistant than indoor pads.

How can I encourage my Shetland Sheepdog to use the training pad?

To encourage your Shetland Sheepdog to use the training pad, place them on the pad after meals, naps, and playtime. You can also use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to associate the pad with good behavior.

What if my Shetland Sheepdog has an accident on the training pad?

If your Shetland Sheepdog has an accident on the training pad, don't punish them. Instead, clean up the mess promptly and encourage them to try again. It's essential to remain patient and consistent during the house-training process.

When it comes to choosing the best training pads for your Shetland Sheepdog, it's essential to prioritize their small size, high energy level, and sensitive nature. By selecting a pad that's tailored to their needs, you can make the house-training process more efficient and less stressful for both you and your dog. Remember to always supervise your dog during potty training and provide positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

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