If your dog is very small or you can’t always let your dog outdoors on time, the best solution for your home may be to train your dog to use a dog litter box indoors.
This is a sanitary, dedicated solution that will protect your home and allow your dog to pee without feeling guilty.
Dog litter boxes are suitable for smaller and medium-sized dogs. We should teach larger dogs to do their business outside.
Even with small dogs, we should view a dog litter box as a supplement to taking our pet outside to pee or poop.
It shouldn’t be considered as a replacement for proper potty training.
So, what are the best dog litter boxes? We decided to test some dog litter boxes and see which ones work the best.
Out of the 11 dog litter boxes we tried, here are the top 5 litter boxes suitable for different dogs and their needs (and 3 honorable mentions!).
Our Top Picks
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall: PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection | We really can’t go wrong with this dog litter box. It comes with a triple-layered system that streamlines clean-up and comes with synthetic grass that’s built to last. | Check Price |
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Best for Senior Dogs: PuppyGoHere Litter Pan | This doggy litter box has a low entrance that makes using this pan easier for older dogs. Its rugged polypropylene build will last through wear from frequent use. | Check Price |
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Best For Preventing Odors: DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads | This is a 20 x 24-inch rectangle plot of natural grass that gives the dog plenty of space. The natural grass makes this the best smelling choice. It also comes with free call-in dog training if needed | Check Price |
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Best for Cleaning: IRIS USA Pet Training Pad Holder | This dog litter box comes in a choice of four colors and is super simple to clean with its highly polished surface. Any litter box owner knows that easy cleaning is a major selling point. | Check Price |
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Best for Small Spaces: Dog Grass Pee Pad Potty | This dog litter box is great for patios or balconies and is perfect for dog owners without much room to spare. It also comes with a satisfaction guarantee for customer peace of mind. | Check Price |
How We Narrowed Down the Best Dog Litter Boxes
For this test, we considered some of the top brands known for their quality and ease of use for us and our dogs.
We looked at a few big-name brands like PETMAKER, IRIS USA, and DoggieLawn, and here’s what we found.
Artificial grass: Synthetic grass potty pads create a good experience for our dogs.
The primary advantage of these litter boxes is that we don’t need to change them too often.
Real grass: Our overall favorite option, actual grass dog litter boxes, is environmentally friendly and equally friendly to our dog.
We need to periodically replace this type of dog litter box, so although it’s another low-maintenance option, it gets expensive over time.
Plastic boxes: Easy to clean and durable, a regular plastic box or large cat litter box can serve as a dog litter box in a pinch.
Read our related article on How to Stop Dogs From Peeing On Beds. Protect your home with our quick guide!
Best Dog Litter Boxes
1. Best Overall: PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 5/5 |
| Comfort | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Sizing | 3/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 |
Sizes: Small (16x20in.), Medium (20x25in.) | Brand: PETMAKER | Dogs: Small to Medium Breeds
What We Liked
- Two sizes that are suitable for most dogs and owners
- Three-piece system for less mess
- Most dogs like the soft artificial grass
- The tray, drain insert, and grass are durable
What We Didn’t Like
- Limited size choices, so it may not be big enough to contain the mess from large dogs
- Not that easy to clean without making at least a little mess with the tray
- Only comes with three artificial grass inserts
The first thing we noticed about the litter box is that the price is the lowest for artificial turf out of the options on our list.
Artificial turf is more cost-effective because the turf can be washed and reused until it is worn out.
This company made our top pick for doggy litter boxes, and PETMAKER has a wide range of equally amazing products for many different types of needs and pets, not just dogs.
It’s easy to see why this was our top pick of litter boxes.
Here are some more specifications that set this brand’s litter box apart.
Size & Coverage
With both small and medium sizes available, the selection is adequate for most owners.
We had a harder time encouraging large dogs to use indoor litter boxes like this one.
These dimensions are generally adequate for the type of dog that typically needs a litter box.
The medium size covers 20 x 25 x 1.25 inches, their standard size selection. The whole system is also a total of four pounds.
The medium is usually a perfect size for a medium or large-sized crate. Additionally, the medium was the ideal size for all indoor spaces.
It is big enough to catch our dog’s eliminations but small enough not to get in the way or be cumbersome.
Material and Features
The entire setup is made of synthetic plastic.
The grass mat, however, does feel like natural grass. And, even though it’s plastic, it is non-toxic and safe for dogs.
It has a three-layered system that acts as a barrier between the dog’s elimination and its paws, keeping the mat cleaner and the dog dry.
The three layers make the grass easy to remove for cleaning without disturbing the liquid contents in the tray.
This artificial grass dog pad is an excellent alternative to disposable pads for many small to medium-sized pets.
It features a sanitary pad that’s designed specifically for one-step cleanup. We put disposable pads underneath the grass to clean up faster.
Ease of Use
The detachable grid tray drains liquid away from the grass mat. This makes it easier to clean and keeps dogs’ paws dry.
The three-layered system not only keeps our pup dry, but the mat dries fast as well.
The bottom tray detaches from the grid tray. This makes it very easy for us to complete a mess-free cleanup.
We’re able to wash the three layers with soap and rinse. This type of system makes it quick and easy to clean.
This would also be great for potty training new puppies as it could get them used to the feel of grass, even if it’s synthetic.
It will also prevent accidents while enforcing the rules. The turf is reusable, so there is no additional cost for pads.
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON2. Best for Senior Dogs: PuppyGoHere Litter Pan
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 3/5 |
| Comfort | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 2/5 |
| Sizing | 4/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 |
Sizes: One size (20x24in.) | Brand: PuppyGoHere | Dogs: Small breeds up to 20lbs.
What We Liked
- A good option for toy, small, and medium breeds
- Low and easy entry for injured or senior dogs
- High sides to avoid senior misses
- Made from sturdy plastic
- Comes with two litter boxes in one package
- Gives multiple choices for the type of “litter”
What We Didn’t Like
- Only comes in one size
- Only good for dogs weighing 20 lbs. or less
- Takes a few weeks to be trained to go inside the box
Our pick for the best dog litter boxes for seniors is the PuppyGoHere puppy pan.
It’s shallow, making it easy for seniors and small dogs to use. It works for dogs up to 20 pounds.
Once they’re trained, this litter box has the potential to hold multiple types of “litter,” including pellets, grass, and potty pads.
We also checked out puppy pads to see which ones work the best, and you can read all about that in our Best Puppy Pads review.
Size & Coverage
This litter pan has a three-inch entry making it perfect for dogs (and other pets) that cannot climb up on a potty patch-type litter box.
The walls provide excellent accident coverage for any lightweight pet.
Additionally, it has walls that are shaped to use any type of elimination collection method.
This pan can give an appropriate area for elimination without taking up too much space.
We found it convenient for use in small spaces like the bathroom or deck. We also could take it in the car for use on vacation.
The higher sides make this the perfect mate for our dogs’ needs on the go! One inch of “litter” is recommended for use with this pan.
Once a pup gets the use down, this will be great travel coverage for anywhere you go.
Materials & Features
This pan is widely used by breeders, trainers, daycares, vets, and more. This makes it ideal for puppy training.
Once they’re trained, puppies can be given free access to the rest of the home at an early age.
This puppy tray is made with strong molded construction. This ensures that it isn’t easily damaged and strong enough to stay in place.
It’s ideal for any home environment or space.
It also comes in various colors. It does come with training sheets on how to train a pup to use the litter box.
It also comes in a pack of two, so you can use this litter pan in multiple places around the house.
Ease of Use
Not only is this litter box simple to use, but it’s also a great companion for our pup when traveling.
We may not always be able to get our dog to a pit stop area while traveling, and this is a perfect alternative.
We found that the sturdy plastic construction makes it easy to handle and clean.
This is ideal for senior dogs, puppies, or injured dogs as they may need to eliminate more than other dogs or have trouble getting outside.
Additionally, this litter box is designed for eco-friendly dog pellets.
However, potty pads or artificial grass can also be utilized in this pan, which we prefer because it keeps the dog from getting confused if there is also a cat box in the house.
We checked out the Best Dog-Proof Litter Boxes, which is another thing to consider if you have both dogs and cats at home.
We found that by keeping a potty pad or artificial turf inside the box, our pup had less confusion about which box was his.
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON3. Best for Preventing Odors: DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 2/5 |
| Comfort | 5/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Sizing | 4/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 |
Sizes: Large (24x48in.), Medium (20x24in.), Small (16x24in.) | Brand: DoggieLawn | Dogs: All sizes
What We Liked
- The grass is all-natural and eco-friendly
- Dogs take to it quickly because of the natural grass
- No setup needed
- No cleaning required
- Good for all sizes of dogs
What We Didn’t Like
- It’s on the heavy side, weighing 10 lbs.
- It only comes in two sizes
- It requires full replacement when used up
DoggieLawn is one of the more unique litter boxes. It’s made from real turf! It is eco-friendly and requires no setup or cleaning solution.
The reasons this eco-friendly litter lawn made it on our list are outlined below.
Size & Coverage
This litter lawn comes in three sizes, perfect for tiny dogs up to larger dogs. These categories address all weight needs.
Like most of the litter boxes we’ve reviewed, this one is adaptable for any environment.
It’s best for people who live in apartments, condos, and other areas without an adequate yard.
It’s also good when the dog can’t or won’t go out during bad weather.
It works for both indoor and outdoor usage.
It’s a great alternative to fake grass and pee pads, which are messier and smellier than this all-natural grass option.
Materials & Features
This best dog little box option is made of all-natural grass! It smells and absorbs like real grass, so there is virtually no odor.
Dogs also instinctively know to do their business on all-natural grass, so there is almost no training required beyond normal dog potty training.
There’s no maintenance or setup needed because it’s real grass.
We were able to just put it down when we received it and toss it when we were done. Plus, DoggieLawn is biodegradable, and materials are locally sourced.
It’s the natural choice for a no-mess, no-setup solution. Be sure to purchase the right size for your dog to avoid misses.
Ease of Use
There is virtually no setup required with this litter box option. All that’s needed is to open the lid once received, then place it in the spot of your choice.
It is also easily moveable so that it can be picked up and carried around the house or on vacation.
There is no cleanup whatsoever. It absorbs odor and urine, so there is no maintenance.
Once it has reached the end of its life, you simply toss this natural grass litter lawn and order a new one.
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON4. Best for Cleaning: IRIS USA Pet Training Pad Holder
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 4/5 |
| Comfort | 4/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 |
| Sizing | 4/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 |
Sizes: Small (holds 17x17in. pad), Regular (holds 17.5×23.5in. pad), Large (holds 22x23in. pad), X-Large (holds 23.5×35.5in. pad)| Brand: IRIS USA | Dogs: All sizes
What We Liked
- Easy to clean
- Holds disposable pads in place
- Great for dogs of all sizes
- Prevents any leakage or slippage
What We Didn’t Like
- Must find correct size potty pads or buy the manufacturer’s brand
- Does not prevent paws from getting wet
As we’ve seen, there’s a lot of different options and types of dog litter boxes.
This is another unique type of litter box with all the bells and whistles to make life easier for the dog and owner!
Size & Coverage
This training pad holder comes in multiple sizes, which hold different pad sizes.
Depending on the size of the dog that will be using this litter box, there’s likely a size that will work.
Training pad holders range from small to extra-large and hold pads from 17×17 inches to 23.5 x 35.5 inches.
This is great for all types of doggy needs. If you’re training a puppy, this is the best option for you.
The latches on the sides keep the pads in place and stop the puppy from tearing up the pad.
The pads cover the entire surface of the dog potty pad holder. However, the holder is an acceptable size to fit in any tight space.
This makes it ideal for apartments, areas with nowhere to eliminate, and while traveling.
Materials & Features
This training pad holder has tight latches on the side. It holds the potty pad in place on the litter box.
This prevents the pad from slipping or tearing when the dog gets up or down. It also has four non-skid rubber feet to keep the tray from sliding around the floor.
The dog potty pad holder is made with a high polish finish, making it easier to clean.
It also has a slight lip on all sides to avoid spills off the pad should a liquid make it to the surface.
Ease of Use
The IRIS USA pad holder comes with skid-proof feet, latches to hold the pad in place, and a highly polished finish that makes this pad holder a sturdy choice.
This makes it super easy to clean as well.
This particular dog potty pad may require some training.
Most dogs will take to it right away, while others will need additional training, time, and patience.
Dogs trained to puppy pads will be the easiest to train for this litter box.
This dog training pad requires an easy two-step setup process.
Fit the top and bottom pieces together, then place a potty pad in the latches and secure it down.
That’s it!
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON SEE PRICE ON CHEWY5. Best for Small Spaces: Dog Grass Pee Pad Potty
Product Ratings
| Affordability | 5/5 |
| Comfort | 4/5 |
| Effectiveness | 3/5 |
| Sizing | 3/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 |
Sizes: Large (26.5x17in.) | Brand: Paws & Pals | Dogs: All sizes
What We Liked
- Easy to clean
- Easy setup
- One size works for all dogs
- Dogs train to this fast because of the soft grass
- Best quality artificial grass
What We Didn’t Like
- Only one size, so it may not fit where you need it
- Requires cleaning
Dog owners don’t always have yards with lots of space to roam.
Many dog owners live in apartments and other small areas without lots of space or yards where dogs can use the restroom.
This particular litter box is an excellent solution for dog owners who don’t have much space to spare but need a litter box for their furry friend to use.
Here’s what we liked about this dog litter box:
Size & Coverage
This artificial grass litter box measures 26.5 x 17 x 1.5 inches. It is 3.8 pounds, which is pretty light considering some of the other models with turf and grass.
This is the perfect addition to any small space.
Even though this litter box is small, its elongated design covers more surface area.
This makes it easy to tuck alongside an empty wall space, behind a table, or on a narrow patio.
Materials and Features
The layered arrangement helps prioritize hygiene while also streamlining clean-up.
There are few things worse than pet products that are a messy chore to clean.
This one is durable, easy to handle, and cleans quickly.
It has a multi-layer design, including the top layer of artificial turf, a draining mat that allows the grass to drain and dry quickly, and a bottom catch tray.
Ease of Use
The synthetic grass should last a while before it starts to smell too much.
You’ll certainly enjoy a longer life than you’d find with a real grass mat.
It’s easy to clean, just wash the two layers with soap and water.
The training is easy, as well. Because it looks like real grass, dogs make the leap fairly quickly.
At the very least, it doesn’t take as long to train this type of litter box versus one that doesn’t mimic real grass.
SEE PRICE ON AMAZONComparison Chart
| Products | Best Overall | Best for Senior Dogs | Best for Preventing Odors | Best for Cleaning | Best for Small Spaces |
| Overall Rating | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Affordability | 5/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Comfort | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Effectiveness | 5/5 | 2/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Sizing | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Quality | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
The Winner
Overall, the PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection was the best option for the money.
It has all the bells and whistles of real grass.
We found it to be durable, easy to clean, and it has the best leak-proof protection to avoid messes inside the home.
How to Choose the Best Dog Litter Boxes
Consider Your Dog’s Needs
Different dogs have different needs.
A dog’s age, height, weight, and special needs should affect its litter box choice.
For example, elderly dogs or injured and recovering dogs have different requirements than young, energetic dogs.
What’s Your Living Space Like?
If you live in a home with a yard, your dog may only rarely use a litter box.
However, if you live in an apartment, the litter box may be used more frequently.
Consider how large or small your space is before deciding on a box that will fit your needs.
Material
If you want a litter box that’s highly durable and easy to clean, certain materials will be better than others.
Also, consider how often you want to clean the box, if at all, and if you want to be able to use absorbent puppy pads along with turf to help eliminate mess.
Read More: Why Are Black Cats Less Likely to Be Adopted? Black cats are the most surrendered cats. We explore why.
Honorable Mentions
Here’s a brief look at the 3 options that didn’t make our list of the top 5 best dog litter boxes, but we felt they are worthy of an honorable mention.
1. Downtown Pet Supply Dog Pee Potty Pad – Considered for Indoor and Outdoor Use
This design is portable and waterproof, so it can be used indoors or outdoors.
It has a draw for easy cleaning and disposal of elimination.
We just preferred the grass on the PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad.
It has odor-blocking technology for less smell than other dog litter boxes.
While the product says it’s 3 layers, we found it more like two layers made of a raised textured collection mat with artificial turf over the top.
It was messier than true 3-layer systems, and our dogs didn’t like it as much.
2. Blyss Pets Klean Paws Indoor Dog Potty – Considered for Comfort and Cleanliness
This is a lightweight litter box. It’s a three-layered system to keep your dog’s paws clean and can be used indoors or out.
It’s the most sanitary of all the systems because the dog pees on a grate that can be kept very clean.
That said, our dogs didn’t like the grate as much as the grass.
This system is also great for puppies because it doesn’t allow the dog to get to the pad, so the puppy won’t have an opportunity to chew through it.
Our dogs responded better to the Dog Grass Pee Pad Potty with a potty pad placed under the grass.
3. Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box – Considered for Ease of Entry
We did like this one, which came in a large and small option. It has a low entry, making it suitable for seniors, small dogs, or puppies.
We tried using puppy pads to make it easy to clean up. It did keep the mess inside really well and is good for traveling.
However, our dog kept dragging the pee pad out or tearing at it, making a mess, so we prefer the IRIS USA box that locks in the pad.
