Reviewed by Dr. Hannah Hart, DVM
Dog diapers come in several designs to accommodate either female or male anatomy. Like baby diapers, female dog diapers offer comprehensive coverage with holes for the tail and legs. Male dog diapers, typically called wraps, consist of a padded band worn around the waist. There are many use cases for dog diapers, though the most common are urinary incontinence, post-surgical recovery, potty training, and the heat cycle in female dogs. Dog diapers come in several forms, including the following:
Veterinarians generally don’t recommend dog diapers as a substitute for housetraining, as they can slip off or irritate a dog’s skin if worn too long. In other words, they’re best used as a situational sanitary measure to keep your house clean in case of accidents or occasional bleeding. If you find yourself in need of dog diapers, take advantage of Chewy’s Autoship to keep your supply steady with regularly scheduled deliveries.
Vets may recommend diapers for dogs struggling with incontinence, those recovering from surgery, and female dogs in heat. They may also be appropriate as a temporary safeguard against accidents but not as a substitute for housetraining.
Female dogs can wear diapers during heat cycles to contain blood and discharge. Diapers may also help prevent a dog from licking the vaginal area. Consult with your veterinarian about what’s best for your dog.
Male dogs can wear diapers as long as they cover the appropriate anatomy. Male dog wraps or belly bands may be more effective than standard dog diapers, though a proper fit is important in either case. Your veterinarian can advise you on the proper use of dog diapers.
Choosing the appropriately sized diaper for your dog and fitting it properly is the best way to keep it in place. Take your dog’s measurements and refer to the product’s size chart, then check the diaper regularly while your dog is wearing it. Always follow manufacturer’s directions, and never improvise ways to keep dog diapers on.
The two most important measurements for a female dog’s diaper are the circumference of the waist and the length from the base of the tail to the waistline (under the body). Compare these measurements to the product’s size chart and, if your dog is between sizes, select the larger of the two.
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