[Gracie2006]

You are not doing anything wrong as far as the missing of the pad with the poo. Today in puppy training class, we were cautioned not to let our puppies get used to having privacy when they eliminate. If you do that, then you are in a dangerous situation if you go to a hotel, camping, etc, any place where your dog must stay on the leash when he/she goes. Allowing him off leash and allowing him privacy could create a situation where your dog could run off. Just something to think about. Just be sure to praise praise praise when he goes outside while on the leash and in your presence.