Dog Diapers

What Are Dog Diapers?

Let’s start with the basics. Dog diapers are almost exactly like baby diapers, with a hole for the dog’s tail. There are both cloth and disposable dog diapers. Cloth diapers cost more initially but are reusable. Disposable diapers are easy to use but end up in the landfill, and costs add up over time.

Reasons To Them…

Urinary incontinence. Just like in people, dogs can suffer from urinary incontinence. This may be caused by a urinary tract infection, a weakened sphincter muscle, diabetes, or a bladder condition. If your dog is incontinent, speak to your veterinarian. Medications or surgery may be indicated to manage the condition. However, they may also be a part of the solution.

For senior dogs. Older dogs may have trouble getting up in time to make it outside. They may also have a more difficult time controlling their urges. In some cases cognitive dysfunction can also play a role in accidents. Medications may help, but the dog diapers may also play a permanent role.

Dog diapers for females in heat. Female dogs in heat may leave stains around the house. They can keep your house cleaner and also prevent the near constant licking that often occurs with a female dog in heat.

House training.  Accidents in the house are par for the course in house training. If you are very concerned about this, dog diapers may be a temporary solution until your puppy or adopted adult dog is house trained. Rely on them too much, however, and your dog may never learn where and when to go. So proceed with caution.

Tips and Tricks

Before you start using dog diapers, check with us. There may be other solutions to a challenge you’re facing. The underlying causes of urinary incontinence should be diagnosed and treated  before we resort to dog diapers.

• There are many brands and variations in fit and absorbance. Follow product measuring instructions carefully, and choose the appropriate fit for your dog.
• Thy need to be changed frequently. Your dog should not sit in a full diaper to avoid an itchy, uncomfortable diaper rash.
• Use baby wipes to clean your dog when you change him
• Wear gloves when changing your dog’s diaper to avoid touching urine or feces
• If your dog has a docked tail, use tape to close over the tail hole before using, to prevent leaking