Diaper Ideas for a Dog in Heat

Anyone who's lived with an unaltered female dog knows that heat cycles can be messy things. Since they last for several weeks, keeping your dog locked up isn't really an option. Fortunately, many dog-diaper options are available these days to keep your carpet and furniture stain free. Dog diapers can vary by price and effectiveness, though, so read on to learn more about diaper ideas for a dog in heat.

  1. Washable Dog Diapers

    • Washable dog diapers are probably the best bet for use when your dog comes into heat. Made in different sizes, these diapers feature a hole for the dog's tail, fit underneath the body, and close with Velcro over the back. Just buy a box of regular maxi pads, stick one inside, and put the diaper on your dog. These kinds of diapers can be reused again and again, so they're more cost effective than disposables. The Velcro typically is thick and strong and helps you fasten the diaper as tightly as needed. As a bonus, you can sometimes find the diapers in colorful prints and patterns. Washable dog diapers are available at most major pet stores, online pet suppliers, and via private retailers. Just remember: washables must be removed prior to letting your dog out to relieve herself.

    Disposable Dog Diapers

    • For ease of clean-up, disposable dog diapers are just the ticket. Like disposable baby diapers, most disposable dog diapers come in multipacks and feature tabs to adjust the fit. Most have elasticized legs, which help prevent leakage. When they become dirty, toss them in the garbage. However, since a dog's heat cycle can last more than 20 days, disposables tend to be rather expensive. Disposable dog diapers are available at most major pet stores and online pet suppliers.

    Make Your Own Dog Diapers

    • Some people prefer to fashion their own dog diapers from things they have around the house. Depending on your dog's size, baby diapers might work, with a tail hole cut in the appropriate spot. Also, some people use men's jockey-style underwear by (carefully) using safety pins to tighten them around the dog's waist, and putting them on backward so the dog's tail can slide out the front hole. When using the latter method, a feminine pad is placed inside to absorb the blood. While these may be more cost effective, neither method typically fits as well as using diapers actually designed for dogs, so that leakage is more likely to occur.