Urinary Incontinence in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

If your previously house trained dog is urinating inappropriately, more often than usual, or in the wrong place, it can be both frustrating and concerning. However, urinary incontinence in dogs is usually a symptom of an underlying medical issue, not a behavioural problem. Understanding the causes and treatments can help you provide your dog with the best care and improve their quality of life.

Understanding Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence refers specifically to the involuntary leakage of urine without your dog's awareness. This condition differs from behavioural urination issues such as scent marking or submissive urination. Older dogs may experience urinary incontinence due to weakened bladder control, whereas inappropriate urination caused by senility is a separate issue.

Common Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Dogs

Many factors can contribute to urinary incontinence. Working with your vet to identify the exact cause is essential for effective treatment. Common causes include:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections cause frequent and uncontrollable urination urges, potentially leading to bladder scarring and constant dribbling if untreated.
• Excessive Water Consumption: Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, Cushing's disease, or hyperthyroidism can cause your dog to drink too much, resulting in incontinence.
• Weakened Bladder Muscles: Age-related muscle weakening can reduce bladder control, causing unexpected urine leakage.
• Weakened Sphincter Muscles: Particularly common in female dogs, especially after spaying, due to reduced oestrogen levels affecting bladder control. This condition is known as urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI).
• Spinal or Neurological Issues: Injuries, congenital abnormalities, or degenerative diseases affecting the spine or pelvis can impair bladder control.
• Blockage of the Urethra: Stones or tumours blocking urine flow can cause incomplete bladder emptying and leaking.
• Birth Defects: Ectopic ureters, where urine bypasses the bladder, can cause constant leakage, commonly affecting breeds like the Siberian husky puppies and miniature poodles.
• Other Conditions: Rare issues like vulvovaginal stenosis can cause urine to collect and leak later.

Recognising the Symptoms

Symptoms of urinary incontinence often include dribbling urine, wet patches on bedding or furniture, frequent licking of the genital area, skin irritation from urine, and occasional difficulty holding urine. These signs can appear first during sleep or rest before becoming more frequent.

Diagnosis and Veterinary Care

Your vet will perform a thorough examination which may include a physical check, urinalysis, blood tests, and imaging like X-rays or ultrasound to detect infections, stones, or anatomical abnormalities. Providing detailed information about your dog's urination patterns, water intake, and behaviour will aid diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment is highly dependent on the underlying cause and your dog's overall health. Common approaches include:

• Medications: Drugs can improve sphincter muscle tone and hormonal balance, especially effective in cases of USMI.
• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections causing irritation and leakage.
• Surgery: To correct anatomical defects or remove blockages.
• Managing Underlying Diseases: Controlling diabetes or kidney disease can alleviate incontinence symptoms.
• Home Management: Sometimes, managing the symptoms with frequent bathroom breaks and protective bedding is necessary.

Supporting Your Dog at Home

Besides veterinary treatment, use waterproof bedding and clean urine-soiled areas promptly to prevent infections or skin irritation. Monitor your dog’s water intake and urination habits closely, and adapt their routine to include regular toilet breaks.

When to Seek Help

If you notice new or worsening urinary leakage in your dog, don’t delay visiting your vet. Early diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of successful management and a comfortable life for your pet.

Remember, your dog is not urinating inappropriately out of defiance. Urinary incontinence is a medical condition that requires compassion and proper care. Working in partnership with your vet ensures your beloved pet receives the best support.