Great job learning his cues. Move the pad closer to the door or right at the door. Start taking him outside for potty. Have a schedule of breaks in addition to watching for cues: when he first wakes up, after meals, after playtime or anything exciting, and so on. Use keywords to indicate it is potty time, and praise him profusely when he goes.
If he is doing really well with that, remove the pad.
I know of people who use a pad in the garage during storms. If you don't have a garage, which to the dog is distinct from the house, it may be confusing to suddenly introduce the pad inside during storms. Usually a well-trained outdoor dog will not potty indoors for anything.
My boys are pad and outdoor trained. They have access to the pad 24 hours a day at home. However, they know that their pad is not at other people's houses or public places.
Whatever you decide, be consistent. If you go back and forth, it will confuse your pup.
__________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy  |