i know nothing about switching from pads to outside but i just wanted to commend you on it!! it must be terribly difficult but it sounds like you are doing a GREAT job and i also suggest giving a treat RIGHT after.. Layla is at the point now where we can just have it inside... you might want to attach bells to the door and ring them before you go out... Layla learned that and she will now touch them with her nose to tell me she has to go out.. HUGE life saver