we do the pad in the house and garage and go outdoors. Hubby usually takes them out several times thru the night. Maggie seems to have a different way she comes up to me when she needs to potty. She kinda looks at me and makes sure she gets my attention. She doesn't give up either. I tell hubby to take out and sure enough she goes potty. Hot Rod has definite signs of running or rushing quickly to known areas that he pottied
If he doesn't go on our walks, the gates are closed off to the rest of the downstairs and we watch him very closely.