I think i would if he is telling you when he wants to go out now the puppy pads may be making him lazy as he is using them instead of telling you on the odd occassion, it could soon become far too easy to use them than bother to let you know and you might find your selves back to square one. I think now the lesson has been taught move forward and onto the stage you would like your puppy to be at as an adult, i think he is telling you he is ready by barking when he does need to go out so regardless of age i would say your pup is definately ready for the 'big boy' stage.

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