A playpen pad needs to do more than catch the occasional accident. It has to handle an active dog circling, scratching, and playing on top of it while keeping the floor underneath dry and clean. When we evaluated these pads we focused on how fast the top layer absorbs, whether the backing truly blocks liquid, and how securely the non-slip surface stays put under motion. In our evaluation we paid close attention to coverage, because a pad sized just under the pen footprint leaves gaps right where leaks tend to run. We recommend reusable washable pads for owners who want to cut waste, provided the waterproof layer survives repeated laundering. What we like most are pads that combine a quick-wicking top, a dependable waterproof barrier, and edges that lie flat instead of curling into trip points.

Sources and further reading