Dog Diapers and Grass Pads: Which Works Best When?

Pet ownership has come a long way. Today’s pet parents have access to a wide range of products designed to make life easier—not just for them, but for their four-legged companions, too. And in terms of the less-than-glamorous aspects of dog ownership—potty habits—there are now more solutions than ever.

Indoor potty solutions like dog diapers have become increasingly available and are particularly attractive among apartment dwellers or pet owners juggling busy schedules. Both options have their place in a dog owner’s toolkit, but how do you know which one is right for your situation?

Understanding the Options: Dog Diapers vs. Grass Pads

Choosing the right indoor potty solution often depends on your dog’s age, health, routine, and where you live. Dog diapers and grass pee pads with a tray may solve similar problems, but they approach the issue in very different ways. Understanding what each option offers—and where they shine—can help set you and your pup up for success.

What Are Dog Diapers?

Dog diapers are designed to contain waste and protect your home from accidents. They come in two main varieties: disposable—convenient but less eco-friendly—and washable—more sustainable but require regular cleaning. You'll also find different styles for male and female dogs to ensure a snug, secure fit. Dog diapers are most commonly used in situations where potty control is a challenge, such as:

• Incontinence in senior dogs

• Female dogs in heat

• Post-surgery recovery or mobility issues

• Travel or emergency situations where outdoor potty access is limited

What Are Natural Grass Pads?

Natural grass pads, like Gotta Go Grass®, provide an indoor potty area using real grass rather than synthetic turf or disposable pee pads. These grass packs are grown in soil, offering a soft, natural surface that appeals to a dog’s instinct to relieve themselves on grass. Unlike synthetic pee pads or fake turf, real grass pads offer several advantages:

• Better moisture absorption and odor control

• No need for harsh chemicals or fake fragrances

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable

• Feels and smells natural—ideal for reinforcing outdoor potty behavior

They can be placed indoors, on balconies, or in covered outdoor areas, making them a versatile option for various home setups.

Where Dog Diapers Work 

There are times when dog diapers are a practical solution, such as in the following situations:

• Post-surgery recovery when your dog can’t move around much

• During travel when bathroom breaks or outdoor access may be unpredictable

• For senior dogs experiencing age-related incontinence

• Female dogs in heat, to prevent messes around the home

In these cases, dog diapers offer a quick and effective way to keep your space clean and your dog comfortable. However, long-term use can interfere with potty training, causing confusion about when and where it’s appropriate to go. Prolonged diaper use can also lead to hygiene issues like rashes or infections if not monitored closely.

That’s where natural grass pads come in. If your dog is already trained to use grass indoors, switching to a grass pad—even temporarily—can be a more sustainable and training-friendly option. This is especially true for dogs recovering from illness or surgery who need access to a consistent potty area.

Where Gotta Go Grass Pads Win

Natural grass pads are an excellent long-term potty solution for many pet households. They’re especially beneficial in situations such as:

• Apartment or condo living, where yard access is limited

• Busy schedules that make frequent outdoor trips difficult

• Early potty training for puppies

• Supplemental potty areas for adult dogs or those transitioning back outdoors

Because they replicate the look, feel, and smell of outdoor grass, they support natural potty behaviors and help reinforce long-term training. Their biodegradable nature makes them a more sustainable option than disposable pee pads or synthetic turf.

Whether you're training a new puppy or caring for a senior dog, grass pads can fit seamlessly into your routine—offering a mess-free solution that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or training consistency.

How to Use Both Strategically

The truth is, there’s no rule that says you have to pick just one. Many pet owners find success using both dog diapers and grass pads strategically—diapers during travel when potty breaks are limited, and grass pads at home to maintain a consistent routine. Some also use diapers at night for senior dogs and grass pads during the day when the dog is more active

In many cases, what a dog diaper can do, a grass pad can do as well, with added benefits for comfort and training reinforcement. The key is consistency. Switching too often or using both without a clear routine can lead to confusion, so establish a schedule and stick to it as closely as possible.

Final Thoughts

Both dog diapers and natural grass pads have their place in a pet parent’s toolkit. What matters most is knowing when to use each and how to match the solution to your dog’s unique needs.

If you’re looking for a long-term, training-friendly, and sustainable solution, grass pads like Gotta Go Grass® are a smart investment. They offer a natural potty experience that supports your dog’s instincts and helps maintain good habits indoors. Like grass pads, dog diapers can also be helpful for temporary or medical situations, offering a safe and effective way to manage waste during challenging times.

Choose the solution—or combination—that fits your lifestyle. When in doubt, grass pads offer a more natural, training-friendly option, supporting a cleaner, more comfortable routine for you and your dog.

Want to learn more? Check out our article, Pee Pads vs. Grass Pads: The Best Potty Training Option for Dogs, to see why natural grass may be the better choice for long-term success.