What are the most common urinary problems in dogs?
There are many common urinary problems in dogs including frequent urination, urinary accidents, blood in the urine, and urine leaking.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Bacterial infections in the bladder or urethra can cause frequent urination, straining, accidents, and blood in the urine
- Bladder stones (uroliths) - mineral deposits in the bladder can cause pain, difficulty urinating, and blood in the urine.
- Urinary incontinence - common in older dogs, spayed females, or dogs with nerve damage, causing involuntary urine leakage
- Urinary blockages - occur when a stone, tumor, or other defect causes a blockage of flow from the bladder
What causes urinary problems in dogs?
Urinary problems in dogs can be caused by various underlying issues including urinary tract infections, bladder stones, urinary incontinence, kidney disease, diabetes, Cushing's disease, prostate disease, cancer, congenital defects, or behavioral issues.
Are certain dog breeds or ages more prone to urinary issues?
Yes, certain breeds and ages are more prone to urinary issues due to genetics, anatomy, and underlying health conditions.
- Breeds predisposed to bladder stones (uroliths): Dalmations, Miniature Schnauzers, Bischon Frises, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, and Yorkshire Terriers.
- Female dogs of all breeds: more susceptible to urinary tract infections
- Large breed dogs: More prone to age-related incontinence and spayed female dogs may have a higher rate of incontinence due to estrogen-related sphincter weakness.
- Breeds predisposed to congenital defects: Siberian Huskies, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles.
- Breeds that are predisposed to kidney disease and bladder cancer: terrier breeds, Shetland Sheepdogs and Beagles
What are the signs of urinary problems in dogs?
- Frequent urination - asking to go outside to potty more often
- Straining to urinate - difficulty or discomfort while urinating, can sometimes include vocalizing when urinating
- Blood in urine - urine may appear pink, red, or brown
- Accidents in the house - unable to hold bladder until outside, especially concerning in a dog that has been potty trained
- Excessive licking of the genital area - can be a response to irritation or infection
- Increased thirst - can occur with bladder infections, kidney disease, Cushing’s disease, or diabetes.
How can I tell if my dog’s urinary problem is serious?
A dog’s urinary problem is considered serious and urgent if they show any of the following signs: straining to urinate with little to no urine output, crying, whining or signs of pain while urinating, frequent attempts to urinate with no success, blood in urine, swollen or painful abdomen, or lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
If your dog is experiencing frequent urination, accidents indoors, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, excessive licking of the genital area, or increased thirst with increased urination, your dog should see their veterinarian.
How does a veterinarian diagnose urinary problems in dogs?
Your veterinarian will diagnose a urinary problem after a thorough consultation, physical examination, urinalysis and baseline bloodwork.
What are the treatments for urinary tract infections in dogs?
Urinary tract infections are treated with the appropriately chosen antibiotic based on your dogs laboratory results.
How are bladder stones in dogs treated?
The treatment for bladder stones in dogs depends on the type of stone, their size, and whether they are currently causing an obstruction.
- Dietary dissolution - some stone types can be dissolved by a prescribed diet trial aimed at lowering the urine pH and reducing certain minerals. This is not effective for all stone types.
- Surgical removal (cystotomy) - The quickest solution for stone removal is surgical removal of the stones. This provides immediate relief, but stones can recur if the underlying issues aren’t addressed.
- Non-surgical removal (minimally invasive options) - Voiding urohydropropulsion and laser lithotripsy are two minimally invasive options used to break stones into smaller pieces to allow them to pass naturally. They are only suitable for smaller stones and are only available and select specialty facilities.
What can be done for a dog with urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence in dogs can often be managed with a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and treating the underlying cause. The right approach depends on the cause of the incontinence. Your veterinarian will complete a thorough consultation, physical examination and laboratory testing to determine the best approach to managing your dog.
How are urinary blockages treated in dogs?
If your dog is completely unable to urinate or is in pain, go to the vet immediately– this is an emergency. These dogs will often show evidence of dehydration and kidney compromise. The emergency veterinarian will work to stabilize your dog, provide pain control, and pass a urinary catheter to unblock the urethra to release urine from the bladder.
How can I prevent urinary problems in my dog?
Preventing urinary problems in dogs involves a combination of proper hydration, diet, hygiene, and regular veterinary care.
- Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water to prevent concentrated urine which can contribute to infections and bladder stones.
- Feed a high quality diet and avoid excess salty treats that can lead to dehydration and increased urination.
- Allow frequent potty breaks, as holding urine for long periods can contribute to infections and stone formation. Take your dog out at least every 6-8 hours, or more for puppies and senior dogs.
What role does diet play in preventing urinary issues in dogs?
Diet plays a critical role in preventing urinary issues in dogs by maintaining proper urine pH, hydration, and mineral balance.
- Urine pH Balance: diet influences urine pH, which affects the likelihood of stone formation
- Mineral content: Diets high in magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, or purines can contribute to the formation of bladder stones.
- Hydration & Urine Dilution: more water intake = dilute urine, which helps flush bacteria and prevent crystal build up.
How important is hydration for maintaining a dog’s urinary health?
Hydration is very important for maintaining a dog’s urinary health. The urinary tract is supposed to be a continuously moving system, and staying hydrated allows this system to function properly. Ensuring your dog always has access to clean, fresh water helps flush bacteria and prevent crystal build up. If your dog isn’t a big drinker, you can add water to their diet to encourage more fluid intake.
Can urinary problems in dogs become chronic?
Yes, urinary problems in dogs can become chronic, especially if the underlying cause is not properly diagnosed or managed. Some dogs can experience recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, incontinence, or kidney disease, leading to ongoing issues.
Can a urinary infection in dogs go away without treatment?
No, urinary tract infections do not go away without treatment. If infections aren’t fully treated, bacteria can persist and lead to antibiotic resistance.
Are male or female dogs more prone to urinary problems?
Both male and female dogs can experience urinary problems. Female dogs are more prone to urinary tract infections, while male dogs are more prone to urinary blockages. Female dogs have a shorter, wider urethra, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. They have a higher incidence of urinary incontinence due to the link between estrogen and urethral sphincter strength.
Male dogs are at higher risk for urinary blockages because of their longer, narrower urethra. They are also more likely to exhibit marking behavior and territorial urination.
Can stress or anxiety cause urinary problems in dogs?
Yes, stress and anxiety can contribute to urinary problems in dogs. While stress alone doesn’t directly cause infections or bladder stones, it can lead to behaviors and physiological changes that increase the risk of urinary issues.
- Stress and anxiety can lead to submissive urination and marking behavior
- Anxious or fearful dogs may avoid urinating in an unfamiliar place or during stressful situations. Holding urine for long periods of time can increase the risk for bladder infections.
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