Quick answer

Fit the AXL Belly Band Upper so the Biothane band sits snug around your dog's waist, just behind the ribcage and in front of the hind legs. You should be able to slide two fingers under the band. The stainless steel snap and mil-spec buckles should sit on top of the back, not under the belly. If you do not already own the Belly Band Lower, you will need it to complete the system.

Why the Upper Piece Matters for Male Dog Leakage

The AXL Belly Band Upper is the top half of a two-part system. It holds the absorbent layer or pad in place and provides the adjustable closure. For male dogs with leakage or marking behavior, the band must cover the penis sheath without riding up or sliding down. A loose band lets urine escape; an overly tight band causes chafing and refusal to wear it. The Biothane material is soft and leather-like, so it flexes with movement while staying durable. The stainless steel proprietary snap and aluminum mil-spec buckles are built for repeated use and easy cleaning.

Sizing and Placement Checkpoints

Measure your dog's waist just in front of the hind legs, where the band will rest. The AXL Belly Band Upper is adjustable, but you need the correct starting size. If the band slides down over the hips, it is too loose. If it leaves red marks or restricts breathing after a few minutes, it is too tight. For male dogs, the band should cover the entire sheath area. A common mistake is placing the band too far forward, over the ribs, which leaves the sheath exposed. Another mistake is placing it too far back, over the tail base, which causes slipping.

How to Introduce the Band Without Stress

Let your dog sniff the band before fitting. Pair it with a treat or a short play session. Put the band on for one minute, then remove it and reward. Repeat this a few times before leaving it on for longer periods. If your dog freezes, tucks the tail, or tries to bite the band, the fit is likely wrong or the band is unfamiliar. Never force it. A properly fitted band should allow walking, sitting, and lying down without adjustment. Check the band after 10 minutes for redness or slipping.

Step-by-step fitting process

  1. Measure the waist: Use a soft tape measure around the narrowest part of the waist, just in front of the hind legs. Write down the measurement. If your dog is between sizes, choose the larger size and adjust down. Checkpoint: The tape should be snug but not indenting the skin.
  2. Attach the Belly Band Lower: If you already own the Belly Band Lower, lay it inside the Upper. Align the edges so the absorbent side faces your dog's belly. The Upper and Lower connect via the snap and buckles. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting the Lower means the band will not absorb urine.
  3. Position the band on your dog: Slide the band over your dog's head or have him step into it. The band should sit behind the ribcage and in front of the hind legs. The buckles and snap should be on top of the back. Checkpoint: The band covers the entire sheath. If it does not, move it forward slightly.
  4. Adjust the buckles: Close the mil-spec buckles and tighten the strap. You should be able to slide two fingers under the band. The stainless steel snap should face outward, away from the skin. Mistake to avoid: Twisting the band. A twisted band concentrates pressure and causes sores.
  5. Test movement and comfort: Walk your dog around the room, ask for a sit, and offer a treat. Watch for slipping, bunching, or leg lifting. The band should stay in place without constant tugging. Checkpoint: If the band slides down over the hips, tighten it one notch. If it leaves marks, loosen it.
  6. Check after 10 minutes: Remove the band and inspect the skin for redness, hair loss, or moisture. A properly fitted band leaves only a faint, temporary impression. Clean the band with a damp cloth between wears. Next step: If redness persists, try a different position or add a soft liner. If leakage continues, check that the Lower is not saturated.

Product facts

  • AXL Belly Band Upper: The AXL Belly Band Upper is the upper portion of the ORIGINAL Biothane Belly Band System. You will need the Belly Band Lower if you do not already have one. Materials include Biothane, a stainless steel proprietary snap, and aluminum male/female mil-spec buckles. Knowing it is a two-part system prevents a frustrating purchase. The Biothane and metal hardware resist odor and wipe clean, which matters for daily leakage use.