Potty Training - Litter Box vs Puppy Pad

A lot of folks ask me why I prefer using a litter box for potty training vs a puppy pad!  Litter boxes are far more hygienic than puppy pads!  They keep puppies from stepping on their stools, they have a better rate of absorption and they certainly smell better!  Over the years I have found that a litter box teaches the pups to go in one certain area which is very helpful in regards to clean up.  The litter we use is non-toxic and will not harm the puppy if ingested, unlike the toxic puppy pad! I have also learned that pups can sometimes associate the texture of the pads with that of carpet or rugs...  which is not a good thing!  :) We like the fact that the litter box stays in one place and doesn't shift around and won't be transformed into a toy by our dogs - this can certainly get messy!