Balcony and apartment dog toilets: grass, fake grass, pads or trays?
Every option has a catch. Here’s how real grass, artificial turf and pads compare on smell, effort and cost, and how to set one up on your balcony.
The best balcony dog toilet depends on your dog and how much upkeep you'll tolerate. Real grass feels most natural but needs replacing regularly, artificial grass is lower effort but has to be washed, and pads are cheap and simple but create waste and can slide around. Whatever you pick, a defined tray in a consistent spot makes training far easier.
How do the options compare?
| Option | Works well for | The catch |
|---|---|---|
| Real grass patch | Dogs who also go outside, or who prefer natural surfaces | Needs replacing regularly, and doesn't suit dogs with grass allergies |
| Artificial grass tray | Owners who want something reusable | Needs regular washing to manage smell, and turf can wear out |
| Disposable pads in a tray | Small dogs, puppies and short-term use | Ongoing cost and waste |
| Washable pads | Owners who want less waste | You'll be doing extra laundry |
| Loose pads on the floor | Emergencies only | Easy to miss, and easy for a puppy to shred |
Whole Dog Journal notes that real grass can help dogs who are also expected to go outdoors, and that loose pads often lead to misses, so a tray or box gives your dog a clear target.
What should I look for in a dog toilet?
- Size. Your dog should be able to stand, turn and squat on it comfortably.
- Drainage and containment. Urine needs somewhere to go, and a tray that's easy to empty makes life easier. Look at how it comes apart for cleaning.
- Easy cleaning. If it's a hassle, you'll do it less often, and the smell will get worse.
- Good ventilation. Whole Dog Journal suggests an easy-to-clean surface with good airflow to limit odour.
- Sides for leg-lifters. Male dogs who lift a leg may need a taller back or a post.
How do I set one up on a balcony?
- Choose a corner away from your door. Keep it clear of where you sit, and of food and water.
- Think about the neighbours. Don't let urine drain onto the balcony below, and hose down only where drainage allows it. Empty and clean it often, because smell travels.
- Check your strata rules. Many buildings have by-laws about what can go on balconies, including anything that affects drainage or the balcony floor.
- Provide shade. Balconies heat up. The RSPCA's rule of thumb is that if you can't hold the back of your hand to the surface for more than a few seconds, it's too hot for your pet.
- Make it safe. Check that gaps in the balustrade are too small to squeeze through, and that furniture can't be used for climbing. Don't leave a small dog out there unsupervised.
- Keep walks going. A balcony toilet is a backup, not a replacement for daily walks and sniffing time.
How do I train my dog to use a balcony toilet?
These steps follow Whole Dog Journal's advice, along with our toilet training guide.
- Let them explore it. Don't put treats on it, because dogs tend not to go where they eat.
- Show them what it's for. Put a little of their urine or a small piece of poo on the surface.
- Take them there at the usual times. After meals, naps and play, on a lead if you need to.
- Use a cue. Use the same word you use outdoors, like "go toilet".
- Reward straight away. Give praise and a treat as soon as they finish.
- Try it outside first if they're stuck. Move the toilet to their usual outdoor spot, let them use it a few times, then bring it back.
- Stay patient. Expect accidents at first, and clean them up without any fuss.
If your puppy's already on pads, see our guide to puppy pads vs grass.
How do I stop a balcony dog toilet smelling?
- Pick up poo straight away, rather than leaving it on the tray.
- Empty and rinse regularly, following the instructions for your product.
- Replace real grass as soon as it browns or starts to smell.
- Use a pet-safe enzyme cleaner. Avoid ammonia-based products, since the smell can seem like urine to your dog.
Frequently asked questions
Can you toilet train a dog to use a balcony?
Yes, particularly if you start young. Use a consistent spot, take them there after meals, naps and play, and reward them straight away.
Are real grass dog toilets better than fake grass?
Neither is better for every dog. Real grass feels more natural and may help dogs who also go outside, but it has to be replaced. Fake grass is reusable, but it needs regular washing and can wear out.
Do balcony dog toilets smell?
They can, particularly in hot weather. Regular emptying, picking up poo quickly and cleaning with an enzyme cleaner all help.
Are dog toilets allowed on strata balconies?
It depends on your building's by-laws. Check with your strata manager or owners corporation, and make sure nothing drains onto the balcony below.
