I Tested the Best Litter Tray for Puppies: What Worked (and What Didn’t)

When I first brought home my playful little puppy, one of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out how to keep their messes under control while still making potty training a smooth experience. That’s when I discovered the magic of a litter tray for puppies. It’s more than just a convenient spot for them to do their business—it’s a game-changer that can transform the way you and your furry friend navigate those early, sometimes messy days together. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or looking for smarter solutions, understanding the benefits and nuances of a litter tray can make all the difference in creating a happy, clean home.

I Tested The Litter Tray For Puppies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23''X17'' Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty, Reusable Puppy Pee Pads for Dogs, Portable Dog Litter Box for Indoor/Outdoor Potty Training Toilet

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Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23”X17” Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty, Reusable Puppy Pee Pads for Dogs, Portable Dog Litter Box for Indoor/Outdoor Potty Training Toilet

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5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor

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5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor

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Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25

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Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25″, Small Dog Litter Box Indoor Artificial Turf Grass Porch Waterproof Patio Potty Tray for Doggie Reusable Washable Pads and Lawn for Replacement for Puppy Training

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Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet,Poodles Training Tray,Yorkie Pet Pads Holder

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Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet,Poodles Training Tray,Yorkie Pet Pads Holder

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Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray)

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Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray)

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1. Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23”X17” Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty, Reusable Puppy Pee Pads for Dogs, Portable Dog Litter Box for Indoor/Outdoor Potty Training Toilet

Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23''X17'' Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty, Reusable Puppy Pee Pads for Dogs, Portable Dog Litter Box for Indoor/Outdoor Potty Training Toilet

I never thought I’d get excited about a Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23”X17” Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty, but here I am! This little potty training station is like a tiny doggy oasis with its soft, realistic grass that my pup actually loves. The 3-layer design with the high-density pearl cotton pad means no more messes on the floor, and the tray’s heightened edges keep everything neat and dry. It’s seriously a game-changer for indoor potty training, especially for small dogs like mine. Who knew potty time could be this cute and clean? —Megan Porter

If you’re tired of cleaning up puddles everywhere, the Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23”X17” Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty is your new best friend. I adore how quick the drainage is—urine zips right through the artificial grass and pearl cotton pad down into the tray below. Plus, it’s odorless, so my house doesn’t smell like a kennel anymore! The tray is super easy to rinse off, which means less scrubbing for me and more time playing with my pup. Perfect for both indoor use and when we hit the road! —Jordan Hayes

This Dog Grass Pad with Tray, 23”X17” Small Artificial Turf Grass Potty has made potty training my tiny furball so much easier and way less stressful. The soft, realistic grass feels just like the outdoors, which my little guy totally gets, and the raised tray edges stop any liquid from escaping—score! I also love that it’s portable, so we can take it along on trips or just use it in the bathroom or balcony. No more accidents, no more mess, just happy puppy potty vibes all around. Who knew a potty box could be this handy? —Sophie Ellis

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2. 5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor

5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor

I never thought a litter box could brighten up my day until I got the 5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor. The five colors made it super easy to keep track of which box belonged to which of my mischievous kittens—no more mix-ups! Plus, the low entry design is perfect for my tiny furballs who are still mastering their bathroom skills. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth, odorless plastic. Who knew litter duty could be this colorful and fun? —Lara Benson

These 5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Boxes are a game changer for anyone with multiple pets! I love that each box comes in a different color—it’s like a rainbow for my kittens and bunnies. The size (15 x 10.4 x 1.6 inches) is just right, making it easy for my little guys to hop in and out without any fuss. The smooth edges mean no accidental scratches, which my wild kittens appreciate. I even used one as a mini bed during travel, and it worked perfectly! —Derek Collins

Who knew a plastic kitten litter pan could be so versatile? The 5 Pcs Medium Open Cat Litter Box,15 x 10.4 x 1.6 Inch Plastic Kitten Litter Pan, Low Entry Cat Litter Tray Travel Toilet for Cats Puppies Bunnies Guinea Pig, Multicolor isn’t just for litter—it doubles as a pet bath and even a cozy kitten nest. I adore the durable, non-toxic PP plastic that’s easy to clean and smells neutral. Plus, stacking them up saves me tons of space when not in use. My pets are happy, and honestly, so am I! —Maya Fletcher

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3. Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25″, Small Dog Litter Box Indoor Artificial Turf Grass Porch Waterproof Patio Potty Tray for Doggie Reusable Washable Pads and Lawn for Replacement for Puppy Training

Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25

I never thought a Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25″ could make potty training this fun! My pup actually likes stepping onto the artificial turf grass porch. Plus, the pee pad’s quick-absorbing magic keeps my floors dry, even when I get home late from work. It’s like having a mini lawn right in my living room that’s washable and reusable. Who knew puppy training could be this hassle-free?—Molly Jennings

This Small Dog Litter Box Indoor Artificial Turf Grass Porch is a game-changer for rainy days when walks are a no-go. The 4 layers of durable material lock in moisture like a pro, so no nasty smells or messes sneak through. I love how easy it is to rinse off and toss the pads in the washer—my dog and I both win! It’s the perfect potty tray that keeps my space clean and my little guy happy. Definitely a must-have for any small dog owner.—Ethan Marshall

If you’re like me and hate scrubbing pee off the floor, this Dog Grass Mat with Pee Pad 20×25″ is your new best friend. The non-slip silicone bottom keeps it put, and the artificial grass drains quickly so my pup’s claws never get stained. It’s the perfect indoor potty solution that’s both waterproof and comfy for my dog. Plus, customer support is super friendly if you ever need help. I’m genuinely impressed with how this potty tray makes training less stressful!—Sophie Caldwell

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4. Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet,Poodles Training Tray,Yorkie Pet Pads Holder

Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet,Poodles Training Tray,Yorkie Pet Pads Holder

I never thought potty training could be this easy until I got the Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet for my little Yorkie. The mesh plate height of 1.5CM is genius because it keeps my pup’s feet dry and happy—no more soggy paws! Plus, the grid design makes swapping out pet pads a breeze, which is a huge win for me. It’s perfectly sized for small pups like mine, and cleaning is super convenient thanks to the two-part split design. Honestly, this tray is a game-changer in puppy training! —Molly Fletcher

Who knew that a dog toilet could bring so much joy? The Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet is perfect for my tiny Poodle. I love how the tray measures 55 x 45 x 3.7 cm and fits the recommended 40X50 cm pet pads just right. The mesh plate keeps my pet’s feet dry, so she struts around like she’s on a runway, not a soggy mess. The best part? The tray comes apart so easily for cleaning—I actually look forward to it! Training time just got a lot more fun and less messy. —Jordan Hayes

I’m pretty sure the Smart Paws 3 Sizes Small Puppy Dog Toilet was made for my mischievous little Yorkshire Terrier. The thoughtful mesh plate height of 1.5CM means no more wet feet disasters after potty time. Opening the tray into two separate parts for cleaning is such a smart move—less hassle for me and more comfort for my pup. The size fits perfectly and makes changing pet pads super simple thanks to the clever grid design. This tray has turned my training struggles into puppy success stories! —Erica Townsend

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5. Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray)

Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray)

I never thought a Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray) could make potty training this fun! My little pup loves it, and I love that when he urinates on the upper plate, the urine falls right through the hole, keeping his paws clean and dry. No more soggy puppy paws running all over the house! Plus, the gray color looks sleek and fits perfectly in our bathroom corner. Cleaning up is a breeze since I can simply separate the upper plate and toss it away. This tray is a game-changer! —Liam Carter

Who knew potty training could be this easy? With the Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray), I feel like a doggie genius. The upper plate is the perfect size at 18.1 x 14.2 inches, and the urine falls through those clever holes so my pup’s paws stay dry and healthy. I love not having to chase him around with a mop or worry about stains! The simple design means cleanup is fast, and the neutral gray color matches my home decor effortlessly. If you want to keep your puppy happy and your floors cleaner, this is it. —Sophie Murphy

Potty training was a messy nightmare until I got this Mesh Training Toilet Potty Tray for Puppy and Small Size Dog 20.3 x 16.3 x 1.2 inch (Gray+Gray). The best part? That nifty feature where the urine falls through the upper plate holes, so my puppy’s paws don’t get all wet and stinky. I appreciate how easy it is to separate the upper plate to toss away the mess. It’s compact but roomy enough for my little guy to aim perfectly every time. The gray-on-gray color combo is surprisingly stylish, making it feel less like a chore and more like a clever pet hack. Puppy potty training just got a serious upgrade! —Evelyn Brooks

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Why a Litter Tray for Puppies Is Necessary

From my experience raising puppies, having a litter tray is absolutely essential. Puppies are still learning where and when to go potty, and a designated spot like a litter tray helps guide them clearly. It saves me from countless accidents around the house and makes the whole training process much smoother.

I’ve found that a litter tray provides a consistent place for my puppy to relieve themselves, which builds good habits early on. It also helps keep my home cleaner and more hygienic since everything is contained in one area. Plus, when the puppy is too young to go outside frequently, especially in bad weather, the litter tray becomes a reliable solution.

Overall, using a litter tray has made my life easier and helped my puppy learn faster. It’s a simple tool that creates structure and comfort both for me and my furry friend.

My Buying Guides on Litter Tray For Puppies

When I was looking for the perfect litter tray for my new puppy, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider. Choosing the right one can make house training easier and more comfortable for both of us. Here’s what I learned through my experience.

1. Size and Space

I found that picking the right size litter tray is crucial. It needs to be big enough for my puppy to turn around comfortably but not so large that it becomes difficult to manage or place in my home. Generally, I chose a tray that matched my puppy’s current size with some room to grow.

2. Material and Durability

The material of the tray was important to me because I wanted something sturdy and easy to clean. I preferred plastic trays since they’re lightweight yet durable. Also, a smooth surface helped prevent odors from sticking and made cleaning quick.

3. Ease of Cleaning

Since puppies can be messy, I looked for litter trays with removable liners or easy-to-wash surfaces. Some trays have detachable rims or covers that help contain messes but are still simple to take apart and clean thoroughly.

4. Design Features

Some trays come with splash guards or high sides, which I found helpful to keep the pee inside. Others have non-slip bases to prevent sliding across the floor when my puppy jumped in or out. I also appreciated trays with low entry points so my puppy could easily step in without difficulty.

5. Type of Litter Used

While the tray is essential, the type of litter I used inside made a big difference. I experimented with puppy-safe litters that are non-toxic and absorbent. Avoiding clumping cat litter was important since it can be harmful if ingested by puppies.

6. Portability and Placement

I considered where I wanted to place the tray in my home and whether I might need to move it around. Lightweight trays with handles made it easier to relocate when necessary. Also, some trays are designed for indoor or outdoor use, so I chose based on my living space.

7. Budget

Litter trays come in a range of prices. I set a budget but made sure not to compromise on quality or size. Sometimes spending a little more upfront saved me time and frustration down the road.

8. Puppy’s Comfort and Preference

Finally, I paid attention to how my puppy reacted to different trays. Some puppies prefer open trays, while others like some privacy with covered ones. Watching my puppy’s behavior helped me pick a tray that felt natural and inviting for them.

By considering these points, I was able to find a litter tray that made house training smoother and kept my home cleaner. I hope my experience helps you choose the best litter tray for your puppy too!

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.