How To Use Dog Diapers Properly

Canine diapers are convenient for housetraining, as well as female dogs in heat, male dogs that mark their territory indoors or ill or incontinent dogs. Before buying canine diapers, it's important to know the following:

  • Canine diapers come in different sizes for different breeds. You need to know your dog's weight and waist size to choose the right size. Remember, sizing charts differ from brand to brand. If you have a male dog, you might want to buy diapers that are one size larger than suggested [source: The Dog Health Guide].
  • Canine diapers come in disposable and cloth versions. Disposable diapers are more convenient and hold more fluid, but are more expensive. Cloth diapers are cheaper and better for your dog and for the environment, but are less convenient.
  • Canine diapers are usually only made to hold urine. If you want diapers that will hold feces, be sure to read the package carefully before making a purchase.

There are three basic types of dog diapers:

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  • Belly band diapers have lightweight belts that wrap around your dog's belly. They're only for male dogs.
  • Full diapers, which have a hole for the tail, go over your dog's bottom and close at the sides like a baby's diaper.
  • Suspender or harness diapers have harnesses or suspenders to keep them from falling down.

Dog diapers come in all sorts of patterns and styles to suit your taste (or your dog's).

If your dog is incontinent, take him to a veterinarian before putting him in diapers. Often, the condition can be treated.

If you decide to use canine diapers, make sure you change them often. A wet or dirty diaper can cause skin irritations and urinary tract infections [source: Handicapped Pets]. If your dog wears diapers day and night, you should wash its genitals three or four times a day [source: Vet Info].

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