Urinary Tract Infections & Incontinence
UTIs and age-related urinary incontinence in senior dogs.
What is Urinary Tract Infections & Incontinence?
Urinary signs in dogs fall into two big categories: infection/inflammation (UTIs, bladder stones, sometimes cancer) and incontinence (loss of bladder control, most often hormone-responsive in spayed females). They can look similar at first — good testing distinguishes them.
Common signs and symptoms
Signs vary between dogs and can be subtle at first. Watch for the following, especially if several appear together or persist for more than a few days:
- Frequent small urinations
- Straining or discomfort when urinating
- Blood-tinged urine
- Accidents in the house
- Wet patches where the dog sleeps (classic incontinence)
- Excessive licking of the genital area
Risk factors
Certain dogs are more predisposed. Understanding risk helps you screen earlier and act sooner.
- UTIs: intact and spayed females, senior dogs, diabetics, Cushing's dogs
- Incontinence: middle-aged to senior spayed females, especially large breeds
- Bladder stones: Bichon Frise, Miniature Schnauzer, Dalmatian
When to see a vet
Use this as general triage guidance, not a substitute for veterinary advice.
- Book a routine appointment if: any change in urination pattern; recurrent 'UTIs' warrant imaging.
- Seek urgent care if: straining without producing urine — a blocked urethra is life-threatening within 24 hours.
Diagnosis and management
Urinalysis and urine culture are the foundation. UTIs are treated with targeted antibiotics based on culture. Incontinence often responds to phenylpropanolamine (Proin) or oestrogen therapy. Bladder stones may need surgical removal or dissolution diets, depending on type.