my ollie can go out thru doggie door, as i say a normal dog should, but my baby needs to have pee pads or he will pee on the rug, usually same area. he will pee numerous times, usually the 4 corners & then i will change. if he poops usually can just pick up with a napkin & flush. he loves to go outside but not as much as my other dog, i think he is afraid to go out @ night & prefers to have me with him. goodluck, the pads are expensive & i think they would prefer fresh everytime, so try not to spoil too much & think your baby will get used to multiple use