Dog Diapers for Incontinence

Dogs may experience incontinence after surgery, as they age, as a result of anxiety or because of a medical condition. Specially designed dog diapers are used to collect the dog's waste when he is unable to signal his owner for the need to go outside and relieve himself. Signs of naturally occurring incontinence often begins when a dog is over 10 years of age. He may dribble urine while sleeping and frequently lick his genitals.

  1. Types

    • Dog diapers are available in disposable and reusable varieties. Most disposable dog diapers are made of absorbent materials similar to baby diapers, with slight modifications to accommodate the dog's tail and body proportions. This type of diaper works well for urine and fecal matter.

      Cloth dog diapers are designed to be washed and reused. An elongated disposable pad insert with an adhesive backing is secured inside the diaper to absorb the dog's waste. Best used for urinary incontinence, cloth diapers are an environmentally friendly option.

    Styles

    • Dog diapers have been designed to accommodate the differences between female and male dog anatomy. For male dogs, wrap-style diapers are common for urinary-only incontinence. The short-scarf style diaper wraps around the male dog's abdomen and is secured atop his back. The male wrap-style diaper doesn't restrict mobility of his hind legs or interfere with his tail.

      Dog diapers for females offer a full-coverage of the dog's rear end. Similar in cut to a human baby's diaper, this style can be worn by females or males.

    Causes

    • Arthritis, stiff joints, limited mobility from a stroke or from surgery can prevent a dog from having enough time to make it outside to urinate and defecate. Bladder stones or growths that block the flow of urine through the urethra may cause a slow dribble of urine, making dog diapers a useful resource. Lack of muscle control, a hormone imbalance, excitable urination and lack of adequate exercise can also cause incontinence in dogs, according to the Doctors Foster and Smith website.

    Warnings

    • Urine scalding is possible when dog diapers are left on a pet for too long. As the urine-soaked diaper rests against the pet's skin, severe irritation can occur. Prevent urine scalding by changing the dog diaper as soon as it is soiled and bathe the pet around the urethra. Allow the area to fully dry before replacing the diaper. If urine scalding has occurred, wash the dog's skin, dry him and apply a topical anti-inflammatory antibiotic-based salve to soothe the rash.

    Reminder

    • Never scold or punish a dog for incontinence. His actions are due to a medical condition beyond his control, not a misaligned behavior. Make sure everyone in the household, including children, treat the incontinent dog with respect and refrains from trying to correct the dog's uncontrollable actions.