Having a dog and living in an apartment or a home without easy outdoor access can be tough. I know when I’m running late for work or have a really late night with my husband, I don’t always have time to take my dog outside to go potty when she needs to. So many dog owners are looking into making DIY indoor dog potty solutions to keep their homes clean and their dogs comfortable.
It’s so easy to make indoor potty spots practical and stylish. With a bit of design ingenuity, the right materials, and a bit of imagination, you can create a space that’s both functional and harmonious with the rest of your home. From a patch of grass to a clever tray system, potty training has never been easier (or cuter).
#1: Natural Mulch Outdoor-Style Potty Corner
It feels quite calm, here between the two white walls. The ground is covered in natural wood mulch and looks like a little garden path. A dog would love it here – it feels very similar to natural ground textures that they would feel like they are going to the toilet.
If you’d like to create a fenced off area in your backyard like this one, all you need is some landscaping mulch or wood chips that are safe for your pets, a narrow outdoor corner or side yard, and some simple edging or barriers to keep the mulch confined. The clean white fencing and siding also add some structure to the space and the big layer of mulch is where your dog can comfortably do his business.
Another tip is to put a layer of something underneath the mulch to prevent odors. Gravel or landscaping fabric will do this. Then you can clean off the mulch every few weeks, thus keeping it fresh and looking neat.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @petloversky
#2: Artificial Grass Tray Potty System
This is a simple set up with a modern feel. The pieces of artificial grass are stacked on a sturdy tray. The white background compliments the green artificial turf. Dogs tend to like this set up as it feels familiar to them when walking on the artificial grass.
To recreate this indoor dog potty, I would need the same artificial turf squares, a drainage tray or some type of plastic base, and possibly even more fake turf squares so that I could easily change them out while cleaning. The tray underneath will collect the liquid so that it can be easily rinsed.
Maw, it can’t hurt to keep two or three pieces of turf on hand so you can rotate them during cleanings. That way there’s always a clean potty for the puppy to use and the grass can dry out completely between cleanings.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @thecityloo
#3: Natural Bark Dog Potty Box
It looks like a miniature dog park in a box. The bark surface provides the most natural potty experience for a dog indoors. Its earthy texture and smell help to make dogs feel more comfortable using it.
To do this, you’d need a shallow wooden box or tray, some natural bark or wood chips and a protective liner to prevent any dampness from soaking into the floor. The bark layer provides an absorbent layer on top of the natural floor and gives the dog an environment he would be used to.
A great Do It Yourself tip is to place a mesh layer between the bark and the base of the tray. This allows the liquid to drain down, while keeping the surface dry for your dog.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @trufflefoxie
#4: Simple Patio Grass Potty Platform
This is more of a relaxed, outdoor patio type of set-up. There is a low wooden fence which holds a patch of grass. The surrounding patio furniture and the openness of the potty area makes it feel like an extension of your outside area. Dogs love this area because it feels like a small section of lawn.
To recreate it, all you will need is a shallow wooden frame, artificial turf or real sod, and a flat patio or balcony area. The wooden border will keep the grass contained and look neat and tidy.
If you have chosen real grass, place a waterproof liner underneath the soil to protect the patio floor.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @urbandogsolutions
#5: Balcony Grass Potty Box
This indoor-outdoor balcony is bright and airy as the sun comes through the window right outside. I have a raised grass platform that sits against the wall, perfect for potty training areas that still integrates into the living space.
It is obvious that you will need a sturdy wooden box or platform, fresh grass sod or turf, and a drainage base for this design. Place the dog house near a balcony or window to allow it to stay well-ventilated and to give the dog access to natural light.
Tip: Raise the base a bit with small feet or blocks so that air can circulate under it to avoid moisture buildup and odors.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @urbanyard_co
#6: Backyard Gravel Dog Potty Zone
This little outdoor potty area is neat and tidy, though the backyard look goes with a little bit of smooth gravel. She also has decorative stepping stones and a little fence to give it some structure but still know it is a potty area.
To recreate this look, you will need landscape gravel, some edging borders and optionally some stepping stones for easy access to clean the area. I like the look of the gravel because it drains really fast and it is easy to rinse with a hose.
One tip: You could place landscaping fabric beneath the gravel before pouring the stones down. This will keep weeds at bay and the area low maintenance.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @debbiewilliamsonaloha
#7: Puppy Training Pad Playpen Setup
This is what I use for my puppy. It is very clean and safe. I will also put my puppy on the playpen so he or she will know where to go. If you leave them for awhile without potty training they might do it somewhere in the house.
To set up this training area, you will need to get a foldable puppy playpen, a large absorbent training pad and a waterproof floor mat. Dogs being creatures of habit will be more likely to use the enclosed area as their potty.
It can be very helpful to keep the potty pad in the same position each day. Dogs can learn by routine, so keeping it in the same place will make potty training much easier and faster.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @dogsand.me
Conclusion
Making a dedicated indoor potty area doesn’t have to be a complicated thing. With a little creativity and a few simple materials you can create an area that works great for both your home and your dog’s natural habits.
Potty time for dogs can be stressful. Whether you choose to use artificial grass, natural bark, or gravel it’s important that you provide a comfortable and consistent place for your dog to “go.” Try one of these DIY indoor dog potty ideas and potty time may get easier for everyone in the house!
Amr Mohsen is a software engineer who traded his keyboard for a leash — at least on weekends. His love for dogs inspired him to share what he learns as a dog owner and enthusiast, bringing a detail-oriented, research-driven perspective to every article he writes. If it’s about dogs, he’s probably already looked it up twice.
