We use both pads and outdoors year round. My 9 pound boys have the pads available at all times, although they would prefer to go outdoors for their big business.
They are willing to go outdoors no matter how cold or snowy, although the younger one won't stay out long if it is super cold. For walks, I insist that it has to be at least 25 - 30 degrees.
I think it would be difficult to train a dog to understand that the pads are only available inside the house at certain times, or during certain seasons. One of my friends did successfully train her Yorkie to use the pad in the garage during inclement weather. A garage or maybe basement offers a distinction from inside the house.
__________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy
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