I don't have any experience , yet~

But, my daughter , who lives in Florida, will be coming up for a short visit next week.

she will be bringing along her Chihuahua, Bella, along with Bella's Piddle Pads

I've never met Bella~ I've only seem hundreds of pictures of her~I can't wait!!

I do think that Bella was already trained to use piddle pads when she was adopted~

I'd try the method you mentioned ~ praising Spanky when he uses the pads, of course , He wouldn't have to be held captive once he catches on ~I hope this idea works.

I can't wait to read more replies~