How to use dog diapers

Dog diapers can be a useful accessory for pets prone to “incidents” of a certain kind. The use of such an accessory when teaching a dog to keep cleanliness is not the only circumstance in a pet’s life when he may need this hygiene product. How to use dog diapers and which type is best for your pet – further in the article.

What is a dog diaper

A dog diaper is exactly what these words mean: a hygiene product that is put on the back of the dog’s body and into which he can relieve himself if he needs it. There are two types of diapers: male diapers, which are usually a bandage around the belly, and female diapers, which are fuller and usually have a hole for the tail. This type is also suitable for puppies who have not yet learned to control their physiological processes. Sizes of dog diapers are different: you can find diapers for dogs of medium breeds and for very small ones.

Both types come in both disposable and fabric reusable types, and each has its pros and cons. While disposables are more convenient, the cost and environmental impact can be significant if a dog needs diapers for a long time. Reusable dog diapers tend to create more dirt and can cost more, but reusing them will save you money and reduce waste in the long run.

When do you need dog diapers?

There are several reasons that may lead to the need to use dog diapers.

• Urinary incontinence: it can be caused by a number of health problems and in some cases develops with age when the dog loses control of the muscles. Urinary incontinence should not be confused with failures in the dog’s toilet training process, which are behavioral in nature. In addition, incontinence can be a symptom of a medical condition, including a urinary tract infection or diabetes. If your dog has many “incidents” in a short period of time, you should take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible, who will check for any health problems and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate treatment. In the meantime, the diaper will protect the carpet and furniture and give you peace of mind while you and your doctor work on a solution.
• Illness or injury: some animals cannot go outside or stand up to urinate while recovering from illness or injury. A diaper can make a dog’s recovery period more comfortable.
• Senior dogs: with age, some pets lose the ability to control muscle function. Others find it difficult to stand on their feet or go outside due to arthritis and joint pain. Another fairly common condition in older animals is cognitive dysfunction, a condition similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, which the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes can cause a dog to forget cleanliness skills. In any of these cases, a diaper will help prevent small troubles.
• Medicines: Some medications can cause frequent urination, writes Tufts-Cummings Veterinary Medical Center. One example is furosemide, a diuretic commonly used to treat congestive heart failure. While on the drug, a diaper can make life easier for both of you by saving you all day trying to figure out when your dog needs to go to the toilet again.

How to use dog diapers

Follow the guidelines below to make wearing a diaper as comfortable and effective as possible for your pet:

• Start by choosing diapers that are best for your dog. Take into account factors such as your lifestyle and budget. Consider whether your dog needs a full size diaper or if a dressing diaper will suffice. Estimate the required absorbency. Consider the size of the pet: you need to choose special diapers for dogs of large breeds if you are the owner of a large animal.
• Once you’ve chosen a diaper, read the dog’s measurement instructions carefully and follow them carefully to find the right size and fit.
• Check often and change the diaper as soon as you see that the dog has gone into it. Leaving a wet or dirty diaper on your dog for a long time will not only cause discomfort, but may also lead to a rash or bacterial infection.
• When changing a diaper, wear gloves to avoid touching the dog’s waste. Dry the animal with disposable baby wipes, then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Tell your veterinarian if you notice signs of a rash, including redness or inflammation, itching, scratching, or stinging in the affected area. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for treating the rash.
• If you are using a full size dog diaper with a very short or no tail, be sure to seal the tail opening with tape.

Using diapers for cleanliness training

Dog diapers can save the carpet while your pet learns to urinate in the right place. It should be noted that although the use of diapers provides some convenience for the owners, it does not bring any benefit to the dog and does not eliminate the need to often take him outside and show him where he should go to the toilet. Diapers should not replace diligent, systematic training for your dog to keep the house clean.

If you do decide to use a diaper while training your puppy to cleanliness, be sure to carefully monitor your pet’s peeing signals and take him outside immediately, writes Pet Expertise. Remove the diaper, show the puppy where he should go to the toilet, and use treats and praise to reinforce him if he does it right.

While your dog may never know what a diaper is for a lifetime, no one is immune from surprises that may, even if only briefly, lead to the need to use them. And if you know how to properly use dog diapers, you can help your pet feel comfortable in case they need them.