We used potty pads for our small dog (yorkie), I have them in places he has gone before. But I faithfully take him out about 4 times a day...on a daily routine. If he HAS to use a pad, he actually comes and tells me (by getting in my lap and staring at me till I go look)...as if...mommy I had an accident! Then we got a baby yellow lab, he was only a week old when we put a pad in one corner of his box, as he grew...he also became an excellent trained dog, letting us know when he wants out. I really think it takes your "faithfullness" in letting them out at a certain time each time, a pattern of times they can count on. All our dogs are great at going outside. There will be accidents, but thats normal, no dog is perfect.