In previous blog post, I made an attempt to outline the 10 dog care accessories every dog owner should know. I hope it was helpful.
Now, let’s talk about dog nappies. If you have a puppy or an older dog that struggles with house training, dog nappies (also called dog diapers) can be a lifesaver for your floors and furniture!
While the concept of dog nappies is simple, getting your dog comfortable wearing them takes time and patience. The good news is there are some tricks that can help make the training process easier on both you and your furry friend! In this blog post, I’ll share some of the top tips for successfully transitioning your dog into wearing nappies.
Choose the Right Nappy Style
First things first – find a nappy style that fits your dog properly. Just like human babies, dogs come in all shapes and sizes. The nappy needs to be snug enough to stay on but not overly tight or restrictive. There are three main dog nappy styles:
Disposable diapers – These are made of absorbent padding and leak-proof outer layers. They are the easiest to put on and often the most affordable option. Make sure to choose the right size range for your dog’s weight.
Washable diapers – Typically made of soft cotton on the inside with a water-resistant exterior. These are reusable and environmentally friendly. Purchase different sizes as your puppy grows.
Doggy underwear – This style looks most like human underwear with coverage for male and female dogs. These tend to stay on better for active dogs.
Take measurements of your dog’s belly and choose the nappy style that you think will be the most secure and comfortable. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect fit.
Get Your Dog Used to Wearing Nappies Slowly
Don’t expect your dog to happily wear a nappy overnight! Introduce them slowly and make it a positive experience with encouragement and rewards. Here are some tips:
– Let your dog sniff and examine the nappy to get familiar with it. Give treats and praise when they show interest.
– Drape the empty nappy over your dog’s back for short periods to get them used to the feeling. Reward calm behavior.
– Lift your dog’s tail and gently slide the nappy on, just leaving it for a minute or two before removing it. Increase time slowly over multiple sessions.
– When your dog seems comfortable with the nappy being on for 10-15 minutes, try taping it lightly or using a wrap to actually secure it. Keep sessions short to start.
– Put the nappy on for 30-60 minutes at a time, allowing your dog to move around and play. This gets them accustomed to walking, sitting, and lying down while wearing it.
– Finally, leave the nappy on your dog for 2-4 hours, monitoring for any rubbing or irritation. Gradually increase the time until your dog can tolerate a whole overnight or daytime period. Go slowly and remain positive throughout!
Make Sure the Fit Is Correct
An ill-fitting nappy won’t do its job properly and can frustrate your dog in the process. Follow these tips for getting the right fit:
– Measure your dog around the belly and choose a nappy size accordingly. It should be snug but not painfully tight.
– Make sure to attach nappies correctly, centering the absorbent padding under your dog’s tail and genital region.
– For male dogs, point the penis downwards into the nappy. You may need to readjust as the nappy shifts.
– Check that no fur is getting caught in the fasteners or leg holes, which could cause chafing.
– Monitor your dog’s movement in the nappy, adjusting any sliding or shifting.
– Upgrade to a larger size as your puppy grows to prevent chafing from a too-tight fit.
– Consider adding suspenders to some nappy styles to prevent sagging, especially for male dogs.
A properly fitting nappy means your floors stay clean and your dog stays comfortable. Win-win!
Use Positive Reinforcement
Any training process goes better with a reward! Use the following tips to motivate your dog during nappy training:
– Shower your pooch with enthusiastic praise and pets when they cooperate with nappy wearing. Use an excited, happy tone.
– Break out the big guns – give high-value treats like bits of chicken, cheese, or hot dog when your dog succeeds with an exercise.
– Offer rewards periodically during nappy wear time to reinforce acceptance, not just when putting it on.
– Give your dog extra playtime and attention on days when nappy training occurs.
– Avoid scolding or showing frustration if your dog resists the nappy. Remain calm and patient.
– When accidents happen, focus on praising successful trips outdoors rather than punishing misses.
With a positive approach, your dog will learn that nappies = good things! This will help achieve nappy acceptance.
Troubleshoot Accidents and Leaks
You can expect some missed cues and leakage as your dog adjusts to wearing nappies. Here’s how to deal with setbacks:
– Use overnight nappies or a heavier absorbency style if your dog leaks through standard diapers.
– Add a doggy undershirt over the nappy to provide an extra absorbent layer.
– Use doggy diaper wraps to fully encase and protect the edges of the nappy.
– Monitor your dog’s water intake and take them out to pee more frequently to avoid overflow.
– For bowel movements, learn your dog’s potty schedule and take the nappy off to poop. Then put a clean one back on.
– Examine the fit and placement of the nappy after leaks – it may need adjustments.
– Reinforce outdoor training when you witness your dog start to go indoors.
– Stay calm and understanding during accidents as scolding can discourage nappy cooperation.
Consistency and patience are key! Accidents will decline as your dog gets the swing of wearing nappies.
Watch for Health Issues
There are many common dog health problems and products that can help including side effects of wearing nappies. Though rare, it’s possible for nappies to cause health problems in dogs if used improperly. Keep an eye out for:
– Skin irritation, rashes, or redness from chafing, rubbing, or poor nappy fit.
– Limping or trouble walking from overly tight leg holes.
– Leash habits like scooting, licking, or biting at the nappy area.
– Signs of UTIs or bladder infections which could indicate the nappy is left on too long between changes.
– Constipation from restrictive nappies, or loose stool from anxiety.
If you notice any physical or behavioral issues, discontinue nappy use while you identify the cause and seek treatment if needed. Your vet can help assess the situation.
Know When to Use Nappies
Dog nappies serve some purposes better than others. Here are the prime uses:
– Assisting with house-training puppies who are still learning.
– Managing incontinent senior dogs who experience leaking or dribbling.
– Containing female dogs in heat to prevent spots in the home.
– Shielding recovering dogs who’ve just been spayed or neutered.
– Protecting anxious dogs prone to accidents when left alone.
In conclusion, as a dog owner who wants to avoid awkward and embarrassing moments such as your dog pooing in public places or inside your room, the above tips can be very helpful. However, take note that nappies are not meant for long-term, round-the-clock use in healthy adult dogs. You may check out the cost of owning a dog in Glasgow.
