I use them, but rarely. Whenever we're staying at a hotel, I put one in hotel room because he seems to use the bathroom more when we're away from home....Daemar LOVES rain and snow, and has no problem using the bathroom in it (I usually put him in his coat--plus, his hair is really thick), especially since I stay out there with him while he handles his um, business.
IMO, You should work on him using it outside more, or else he's going to rely on using it on that pad.