Many of us see our dogs as sort of like our furry children. Like babies, canines may likewise need to put on a pair of dog diapers for various reasons.
Maybe youāve never dealt with diapers before or are looking for some answers on the topic. The Furry Companion is here to provide you with a beginnerās guide to diapers for your canine friends.
Table of Contents
1. When To Use Dog Diapers
There are several reasons dog owners might want to or have to use diapers for their fur babies:
Urinary Incontinence
Some dogs may experience an involuntary leaking of urine. This condition is called incontinence and may be due to a urinary tract infection, hormonal imbalance, or weakened sphincter muscles. Diabetes, viral infections, or bladder problems may also cause this. While your dog will be unable to control this problem, dog diapers can help catch the urine.
“Most cases of urinary incontinence (especially non-neurogenic causes) are associated with a small to normal-sized bladder at presentation,” says Dennis J. Chew, DVM, DACVIM.
When dealing with incontinence, itās best to consult with your vet before putting your pup in diapers. They may be able to treat the condition, meaning you can avoid purchasing diapers altogether.
Recovery From Surgery Or Illness
When canines are recovering from an operation, they may not be able to stand or walk going out to pee. Illness may also prevent them from quickly going outside to do their business as usual. You can thus use dog diapers temporarily to avoid having to bring them out.
Senior Dogs
Aside from incontinence that may begin due to old age, our furry friends can also forget their potty training. Similar to how humans can develop Alzheimerās disease, they can develop canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). With CCD, dogs can exhibit changes in their behavior, including peeing inside the house.
Female Dogs In Heat
During a female dogās heat cycle, the dog releases a bloody discharge somewhat similar to menstruation in humans. During this time, youāll notice her licking and grooming more than usual. Dog diapers can prevent any bloody messes. However, these diapers will not be able to function as contraception. Male dogs may be able to find their way around the covering.
According to Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM, and co-author, “The most obvious recognizable sign of heat in dogs is vaginal bleeding. This may not become apparent until a few days after the female has come into estrus. Some female dogs experience heavy vaginal bleeding during estrus, while other dogs have minimal bleeding.”
Potty Training
Ideally, we all want our dogs to be potty-trained. It keeps our furniture and home clean and free of urine. However, it can take a while to train our pups. Until then, you can use dog diapers to avoid a mess inside the house.
Tiffany Tupler, DVM shares some tips on how to effectively potty train your dog, “Always watch for signs that your dog needs to go out, and take them right away. Signs include barking at or scratching at the door, sniffing the ground and circling, and acting restless.”
However, itās best not to let it be a replacement for potty training. Experts recommend using it only towards the end when youāre almost sure that your dog wonāt make any accidents.
Other Reasons
Another reason you might need to get dog diapers for your canine is that some places require such. Some malls and amusement parks, for instance, require owners to have their pets wear diapers to avoid accidents and messes. These guidelines may be due to some pet owners not cleaning up after their furry companions.
2. Types Of Dog Diapers
Once you start looking for dog diapers, youāll see an array of available choices. It can be overwhelming, but once you have enough information, you can decide which to try out.
Washable vs. Disposable
Similar to those for babies, there are cloth and single-use options for dogs. Disposable ones may be more widely available as most pet supply stores often have them. Theyāre also hassle-free since you can toss them out and change them when necessary.
However, washable ones may be more economical in the long run, not to mention theyāre more environmentally-friendly and sustainable. If you find that your dog will need diapers for a long time or permanently, cloth diapers may be a better option.
Belly Band Diapers
A belly band is an option you have for male dogs. From the name itself, these diapers look like a band that wraps around your canine friendās belly. They look more like a thick belt than shorts or underwear. Because of their shape, these diapers are only useful for male dogs as they cannot entirely cover the anatomy of a female.
Belly bands can help with incontinence, accidents, and even when your furry companion marks their territory. However, they wonāt work for catching poop. These diapers can come in disposable or cloth form. Some may be washable but have a space for a liner that you can switch out when itās wet.
Full Diapers
Full dog diapers are similar to those people use, except they have a hole for your dogās tail. They may also be slightly different in shape as well as size. Unlike belly bands, you can use this option for both male and female dogs.
For male dogs, you may want to look for diapers longer in length and a broad base. This measurement is to ensure that the diapers fully cover your dogās urethra. Female dogs will not need as much in length due to differences in anatomy. Look for diapers for females to avoid having them wear something too bulky or unnecessary long. The additional width may be uncomfortable for them.
Suspender Or Harness Diapers
Some full diapers may come with suspenders or a harness to keep them on your dog better. Youāll see that some pets may be able to shimmy out of their diapers, and having this additional support can help them stay on. The bands may wrap around your dog, similar to a harness you use when walking them.
The suspenders may be reusable, wherein you can attach them to disposable or cloth dog diapers more than once.
Regular Diapers
Some dog owners choose to purchase human diapers and cut a hole in it to make room for the tail. While this is an option for some, we donāt recommend it unless itās an emergency or youāre in a pinch. Baby diapers or even those for adults may not comfortably fit your canine friend. Likewise, many of those who have tried it reported that the straps tend to come loose as their dog moves.
3. How To Find The Right Size
Now that you know what options there are, itās time to learn about finding the right size.
Similar to clothes and human diapers, brands will have different sizing guides. Some may base their sizes on waist measurement or weight. Itās best to know both so that when you look for dog diapers, you have all the information you need.
To get the former, take a flexible tape measure and wrap it around your dogās waist. This area is about two inches from the hind legs. Alternatively, you can also use a string and measure that using a regular ruler.
Make sure that you check the labels or company website to see their sizing chart. These tables will guide you in choosing the right size. We recommend that if youāre trying diapers or out for the first time, purchase only one pack. This way, you can make adjustments during your next purchase if you find that the size is wrong.
If you think that your dog is in between sizes, itās best to opt for the larger size. It will be easier to adjust or secure a bigger diaper than to stretch out a smaller one. Likewise, it may be better to get bigger diapers for male dogs.
Additional Tips When Using Dog Diapers
Here are some other tips for owners dealing with diapers for the first time:
- Take into consideration the breed and anatomy of the dog. Some canines may not need the tail hole if their tail is small enough. Having a gap in the back when they don’t need it may lead to leakages in the diaper. You can patch the hole with tape or find a brand that offers options without a gap.
Likewise, if your dog has lost a leg, the urine may leak through the leg hole. You can also cover this with tape. Additionally, some brands that make washable ones can customize your dogās diapers.
- If, for whatever reason, you have to use a human diaper, put it on backward. Place the backside of the diaper on the underbelly of your dog. This placement will provide more coverage, and itāll be less likely for the straps to come undone accidentally.
- Make sure you change dog diapers once every three to four hours. Or, if possible, change them as soon as your dog soils them. By doing so, you ensure that you keep your dog comfortable and clean. Nobody wants to sit in their filth all day. Irritation may occur, or a rash may develop if you leave them on for too long.
Summary
Dog diapers are useful for numerous reasons. They deal with incontinence, provide relief for those recovering from illness, and avoid messes by those who have forgotten training. They may also be necessary when in public places, as well as for female dogs in heat.
When buying diapers, youāll find that you have several choices. Youāll see washable and disposable options, belly bands for boys, or full diapers. Some may come with a harness or suspenders to help keep them on your dog.Ā
When choosing a size, make sure to measure your dogās waist as well as take note of their weight and breed. Check the packaging or brandās website for their sizing chart, as each will have their unique way of sizing.
Trying out dog diapers for the first time may be a confusing or overwhelming experience. However, equipping yourself with the knowledge you learned from this article will prepare you and help you start. Always make sure to keep your dog’s comfort in mind. By staying in tune with your furry companion, you’ll be sure to find the best fit for you and your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do diapers for dogs really work?
Yes, dog diapers help dogs who are not potty trained and frequently have accidents at home. If you have dogs suffering from urinary incontinence, senior dogs, furry friend recovering from an illness, or dog in heat, these dog diapers can do wonders.
Is it bad for dogs to wear diapers?
In general, dog diapers are not bad for dogs, but there are proper precautions to observe to ensure that it does not cause adverse effects on your pet. Make sure that you change the diaper often, especially when soiled. A dirty diaper can be uncomfortable for your pet, as well as it may cause diaper rash. Aside from that, a wet diaper can also cause bacterial infection.
How long can a dog wear a diaper?
Ideally, dogs should only wear diapers for 3 to 4 hours. If you can, make sure to change the diaper immediately after they poo or pee. Allowing your dog to be in contact with the soiled diaper can cause discomfort and infection.
Are dog diapers for poop?
Yes, aside from urine, dog diapers can also contain poop as well as menstruation. Dog diapers help dogs in potty training, female dogs in heat, and male dogs who mark their territory. Having to deal with these conditions mentioned above can be incredibly challenging for pet owners, but dog diapers can help make the job easier.
How often should you change dog diapers?
It depends on the dog. If your dog is suffering from urinary or fecal incontinence, it is ideal for changing diapers after they go. However, if your dog is in heat, it will not be regular, but you still have to change it regularly. The best time to change is within 3 to 4 hours.
Is incontinence a reason to put a dog down?
No, putting a dog down only for incontinence is not necessary. You can opt for other options, such as using a dog diaper on your pet. If you think that your dog has other underlying health issues causing the incontinence, it is best to seek your veterinarian.
What are dog diapers for?
Dog diapers are handy for fur parents with dogs in heat, dogs in potty training, and dogs with urinary or fecal incontinence. To ensure that your dog diapers can do its job well, make sure to buy correct fitting dog diapers for your pet.
Why does my dog leak urine when lying down?
It can be a sign of aging for dogs. As dogs get older, their bladder sphincter and muscles may leak to the common vestibule area, which causes the urine release. This may be an involuntary muscle movement that they cannot control, making dog diapers a good solution.
Can you make your dog homemade diapers?
Yes, you can definitely create a homemade diaper for your puppy or dog. You just need to take children-sized underwear that fits the physique of your dog. Cut a hole where your pupās tail should enter and line a sanitary pad inside. Make sure to cover all sides to prevent any leakage.