When to Use Dog Diapers

Canine diapers are a common form of disposable or reusable diapers, usually fashioned from cloth and attached with Velcro, that serve a variety of purposes. They're usually employed to help house train dogs, ease the cleanup of menstruating females, and caring for older and incontinent animals that lack bladder control. Some owners with easily excited dogs use them to aid cleanup as well.

  1. Description

    • Dog diapers come in a wide variety of designs and materials. Quite broadly, they usually look like shorts, human diapers, or harnesses. Disposable models are usually fashioned from cloth or plastic, while reusable models are mostly cloth. Many shapes and sizes are breed- and sex-specific, although there's no guarantee of consistency across brands. Some designs include space for liners or pads to absorb more. In general, dog diapers are designed to hold urine, although some do a reasonable job with fecal matter. If used for the latter, it's recommended the owner buy one size larger than would normally be used.

    Use

    • When house training a dog, diapers aid in cleanup and are useful as a transitional tool. Because a soiled diaper is uncomfortable for most animals, a properly trained animal will indicate their desire to go outside and relieve themselves. Moreover, in the case of male dogs, diapers prevent the animal from marking territory. Diapers are also used for injured canines that cannot regulate their own body functions or move easily. In dog breeding, diapers aid in the cleanup of menstruation.

    Considerations

    • Although generally designed for comfort, canine diapers are not a long-term solution for potty training. After a few self-soiling incidents and changes of diapers outside or in an appropriate area, the animal should go to those areas to relieve him or herself. In the case of incontinent or older animals, diapers are a way of life and should be chosen for comfort and durability. An injured animal that has been using diapers may have trouble returning to normal relief habits after discontinuing their use. Thus, retraining may be required.