Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs: Causes and Symptoms of Dog UTIs
Many pet owners can set their clock on their pup’s feeding, peeing, and pooping schedule. Like people, dogs thrive on a consistent routine and schedule, contributing to their overall health and well-being. In many cases, a well-trained dog will provide their pet parent cues when it’s time for a potty break, especially if it’s outside their regular bathroom break schedule. It’s naturally concerning when your dog suddenly exhibits abnormal urination habits or if they suddenly begin having urinary accidents in the home.
One of the most common causes of changes in your dog’s urination habits is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Understanding UTI risks, warning signs, and causes will ensure pet owners seek early veterinary care to relieve their pup of these potentially painful infections.
What are urinary tract infections in dogs?
Your dog’s urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters (tubes that transport urine from the kidney to the bladder), the bladder, and the prostate in male dogs. In most cases, the term UTI is used to describe an infection of a dog’s lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and prostate. However, the upper urinary tract (kidneys and ureters) can also become infected.
UTIs are not uncommon in dogs and are categorized as acute (simple) or chronic (recurrent) infections. An acute UTI is an infection in a dog that experiences fewer than three UTIs within a year. Additionally, acute UTIs usually improve within 48 hours after initiating treatment. Dos with chronic UTIs have had three or more episodes within a year or more than two infections within six months.
A healthy bladder is considered sterile because it is designed to prevent bacteria or other microorganisms, like fungi, from invading and causing inflammation and infections. However, when the bladder is not functioning correctly or is invaded with bacteria through the urethra (the tube that allows urine to exit the body), these bacteria can reproduce, resulting in a UTI. The most common bacterial culprit causing UTIs is E. Coli, found in the feces; however, numerous other microorganisms lead to UTIs in dogs.
Risk factors and common causes of UTIs in dogs
Any age, sex, or breed can suffer from a UTI. However, these infections are more common in female dogs than males because a male’s urethra is longer, making it more difficult for bacteria to reach the bladder. A dog’s external genitalia can be exposed to bacteria from various sources, including the environment, licking, and skin bacteria that can invade the urethra and enter the bladder. Young puppies, senior dogs, overweight or obese dogs, or female dogs with anatomic issues, like a recessed vulva, have an increased risk for UTIs. Certain breeds are also prone to UTIs or bladder stones, which can cause secondary infections. Increased risk breeds include miniature poodles, Dalmations, pugs, French bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, Yorkshire terriers, and schnauzers.
Urinary tract infections can also result from underlying causes; in these cases, affected dogs may suffer from chronic UTIs or more severe signs affecting the urinary tract. Common causes for chronic UTIs in dogs may include:
- Kidney disease
- Bladder stones
- Diabetes
- Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
- Bladder polyps
- Medication reactions
- Neurologic disease
- Tumors or cancer in the urinary tract
- Incontinence
- Genetic malformations or development issues
Signs of urinary tract infections in dogs
It can be challenging to recognize early symptoms of a UTI in dogs because some may be very mild, like a single accident in the house. In contrast, other dogs exhibit more severe signs. Common UTI signs may include:
- Increased frequency of urination
- Straining to urinate that results in small amounts of urine
- A house-trained dog that is suddenly urinating indoors
- Dribbling urine
- Increased water consumption
- Bloody or red-tinged urine color (i.e., hematuria)
- Vocalizing or whimpering during urination attempts
- Chronic licking of the genital area
- Red, inflamed skin around the genitals
Dogs suffering from a more severe UTI may have an upper urinary tract infection or other underlying health issues. Additional signs may include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Increased thirst and urination
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Pale gums
Diagnosing and treating urinary tract infections in dogs
Bring your dog for a veterinary examination if you notice any changes in their urination habits. When possible, provide your veterinarian a fresh sample of your dog’s urine to help expedite a diagnosis and treatment. A veterinarian will perform a nose-to-tail examination and a urinalysis test on dogs showing signs of an acute UTI. A urinalysis microscopically examines your dog’s urine for blood, bacteria, white blood cells, sugar, protein, pH, and specific gravity.
These tests allow your DVM to determine if a bladder infection is present or if additional diagnostic tests are required to rule out more serious health issues. Other tests may include a urine culture to determine the exact bacteria-causing infection, complete blood work to check overall organ health, including the kidneys, and advancing imaging, like an X-ray or ultrasound, to rule out bladder stones or other masses.
Treatment will depend on UTI severity, clinical signs, and underlying health conditions. Dogs diagnosed with an acute UTI will likely be prescribed a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory or other pain medications to alleviate associated pain. Dogs with more severe signs or who have been diagnosed with other underlying health conditions may require the following treatments:
- Surgery to remove bladder stones, polyps, or other masses
- Intravenous fluid therapy to support the kidneys
- Hormone regulating medications
- Insulin for diabetic dogs
- Secondary antibiotics for more complex infections
- Pain medication
How to support your dog’s urinary tract health
Urinary tract infections are not always preventable, but you can support your dog’s urinary and overall health in numerous ways. Providing your dog with proper nutrition and care ensures they remain healthy from puppyhood to their gray-muzzle years. Dogs prone to UTIs may benefit from veterinary-approved supplements targeting bladder health, like Native Pet Bladder Chews. However, always consult your veterinarian before adding any new supplement to your dog’s routine.
Additionally, early recognition of UTI signs and prompt treatment with your DVM can help prevent more severe and painful infections. Tips to keep your dog healthy and UTI-free include:
- Bringing your dog for annual or more frequent veterinary examinations
- Ensure fresh, clean water is always available, and clean your dog’s water bowl daily to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Keeping your dog clean, well groomed, and brushed to prevent matting, which can cause them to lick their fur or skin excessively
- Supporting your dog’s overall health, including skin, bladder, and immune system, with a veterinary-approved all-in-one supplement, like Native Pet The Daily
If your perfectly house-trained pup suddenly starts peeing indoors, this abnormality may be the first clue they are suffering from a painful UTI or other underlying medical condition. Early recognition and treatment will provide your pup prompt relief and allow you to get to the bottom of your dog’s peeing problems.
For more information and tips on your dog’s health, check out the Native Pet Blog.
