Dog Heat Suit – a great alternative to diapers for bitches in heat

Sizing of the dog heat suit

We have ordered a size LARGE for Mila, because I was unsure about the measure points. That size was too large (medium would have been the better choice), but I was able to adjust the suit with my sewing machine, so I did not have to exchange it.
Sizes obviously are depending on the dog’s back length. However, with the information on Amazon alone I found it hard to determine where to start and end my measurements. I have taken photos of the packaging, because what’s missing on Amazon is right there:
A chart listing the proper sizes for different breeds and an image showing how to take the measurement.

When sized properly the suit does not shift a lot or leak.
If you have a dog with a large chest, don’t worry about the fit around the chest, the suit “gives”.

Padding the dog heat suit

The wide back part of the suit does not crumple as the diaper always did before.
For additional moisture protection and to collect the discharges I have just cut some ordinary potty pads we had left over from Mila’s potty training when she was a baby. The advantage is that I could make these wider than the usual pads for humans and they already come with a moisture blocking layer. To my cut out shape I then attached some double sided adhesive tape and simply adhere this thin pad inside the back part of the suit. I usually exchange it 2-3 times a day to keep Mila feeling comfy and avoid overloading the pads.

For potty business the suit does not have to be completely removed to go outside. Just unfasten the snap-fasteners in the back and roll the suit up two or three times. That also works with the pad in it.
I first fold the pad in a way it is facing itself and then the entire thing the other way towards Mila’s chest. This way the suit stays clean.
The suit even has a fastener strap on the belly/ chest part to hold folded parts back when needed, but I don’t use that strap.

If you want the template for the pad I cut out of potty pads, you can DOWNLOAD it right here.
I have included one version for the full sized (unaltered) suit and the pad size I am using in our suit for Mila, which I altered for better fit (among other places in the back) with shorter wings (that’s the “length for altered suit size” on the template).
Download – print – cut out the template and then your pad, stick double faced adhesive tape on it – and you’re ready to go.

Disadvantages of the dog heat suit

There are some things to consider with the suit.
One disadvantage is the price: With about 40 Dollars (USD) it is more expensive than most diapers. But I am pretty optimistic that this suit could last us years to come. That makes it worth the money.
Another point is that is does not dry very fast (took me an hour in the dryer). So it may be a little difficult to find the best time for washing and drying it, unless you own two of those suits.

The last point is that sizing is critical. The stretchy material has quite some give, so bad sizing will result in leaking and tangling. Also the material does NOT shrink when washed – rather the opposite, I feel – thus correct sizing is crucial, unless you own a sewing machine.

If you get the chance to try this suit on with your dog somewhere, I highly recommend doing that! OR ordering before the dog actually gets into heat to have enough time for replacements, if necessary.

Other than that this suit is just perfect! Mila feels comfy and does not fight it. There is no staining and in her suit she can even be allowed back on the couch again. Visit the manufacturer’s site also for more information.

If you have any questions about the suit or remarks, just let me know.

Here you find more information on a dog’s heat cycle