Why Is My Dog Peeing More Often? Urinary Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore
Every dog has a routine. So when your dependable walking partner suddenly needs three potty stops before you’ve reached the end of the block, it could be your faithful companion’s way of saying “something doesn’t feel right.”
Is your dog simply drinking more water? Is this a natural side effect of aging? If your dog wants more bathroom breaks than belly rubs or starts having accidents in the house, it’s better to play it safe and contact your veterinarian. Frequent urination in dogs can point to a health problem that needs prompt attention.
In this blog, our team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital examines possible causes of frequent urination in dogs so you know when to seek help.
UTI Dog Symptoms
Urinary tract infections are one of the most common causes of frequent urination in dogs. UTIs can be quite uncomfortable and rarely improve without treatment. Fortunately, they’re easy to diagnose with a simple urine test and typically respond well to appropriate medication.
Common UTI dog symptoms include:
- Frequent trips outside
- Straining to urinate
- Passing only small amounts of urine
- Blood in the urine
- Accidents in the house
- Excessive licking around the urinary opening
Could Bladder Stones Be the Cause?
Another possibility behind frequent urination in dogs is bladder stones in dogs. These mineral deposits can irritate the bladder and make dogs feel like they constantly need to pee, even when very little urine is present. Because blockages can become life-threatening, prompt veterinary care is essential if your dog is unable to pass urine.
Bladder stones in dogs can also lead to:
- Bloody urine
- Straining or discomfort while urinating
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Urinary blockages (in severe cases)
Other Conditions that Trigger the Urge to Pee
Since multiple conditions can cause urinary urgency, a thorough examination and proper diagnosis are key to getting your pet back on the road to better health.
Other possible causes include:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Hormonal disorders
- Certain medications
- Increased water consumption from another underlying condition
When Should You Call Your Veterinarian?
Some urinary conditions can quickly spiral into emergencies, so don’t wait if you witness a dramatic change in your dog’s bathroom habits.
Schedule an appointment immediately if your dog:
- Suddenly begins urinating much more often
- Strains or appears uncomfortable
- Has blood in the urine
- Starts having accidents indoors
- Drinks significantly more water than usual
- Is unable to urinate despite repeated attempts
Small Changes Can Signal Bigger Problems
At MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to identify the cause of urinary problems and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Whether it’s a UTI, bladder stones in dogs, or another underlying condition, early diagnosis can help your dog get back to feeling comfortable and enjoying long walks without unnecessary stops. Please reach out to us at (916) 939-1705 if you have any questions or concerns.