Dog diapers are not all the same
Does your dog need a diaper?
Maybe your dog doesn't need a dog diaper, also known as dog britches. However, if you have a female dog with heat cycles or is incontinent due to health reasons or aging, you might be interested in finding out more.
Of course, you don't have to use diapers in these instances. Some people do keep their dogs outside or just clean up the mess. However, the first option means your dog doesn't get to be part of the family because they're exiled. The second option means you will have a smelly house. Diapers present a third option that is often better than the first two.
Choices for dog diapers
Make do with what's around.
If you've decided that a diaper is the best option, you now need to decide which ones to use. Some people rig up something using human clothing like men's underwear or a baby's onesie. These can help, but since they aren't made for dogs, the chances of getting a good fit that keeps the diaper in place and your dog comfortable are small.
Commercial diapers
You can purchase disposable diapers at most pet stores or big stores. These can be better than nothing and at least contain the mess. However, whether you buy human diapers or those intended for dogs, a disposable diaper gets bulky and makes a lot of noise that your dog may not like. Plus, you throw them away and add them to the landfill.
Handmade dog diapers
Many creative people have started making fabric diapers that are intended to be laundered and reused. You can find these on sites like Etsy or other online stores. Fabric britches like these can be more comfortable for your dog, especially if they're made of soft fabric and fit well. The most common design involves a hole that you have to pull your dog's tail through. They work, but maybe there's something even better.
Custom dog diapers
Having a diaper made just for your dog is most likely to end up with your dog being comfortable. The cost is higher initially, but you make it up when the diaper can be reused several times.
Developing a different diaper
After attending numerous dog shows and watching the dogs have diapers put on, I got to thinking. These dogs usually didn't look happy at having to wear their britches. Most of them had been doing it long enough that they tolerated it, but they usually stiffened up and walked just a little differently. What if I could design something more comfortable?
In discussing the problem with various dog owners, we brainstormed how to make a better diaper. Based on our conversations and my own trial and error, I came up with a design that seems to work really well.
My Great Fit dog britches are designed to fit a dog comfortably and are made of soft cotton flannel to decrease skin irritation due to rubbing or friction. They have
- A waistband that sits further forward from the hips than most diapers, allowing greater freedom of movement.
- Straps that attach the diaper section to the waistband instead of a solid panel with a tail hole so that your dog doesn't have to have her tail messed with as much.
- a custom fit since they're made using the breed info and measurements you provide.
Is it worth buying Great Fit dog diapers?
Custom dog diapers do take an investment upfront. It can be tempting to go with a less expensive option. However, if you think about it,
- If your dog isn't comfortable in the diaper you put on them, they're more likely to chew it off, probably making the diaper unusable and leaving a mess.
- You can reuse them over and over. Your investment can last for several years if the diapers are used responsibly.
If you're in the market for a dog diaper that's comfortable for your dog and gentler on the environment, take a look at Made by De. And when you're there, don't forget to get your discount code and save 20% on your order.
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