Why Is My Dog Incontinent?

Posted by Petdirect on 20th Nov 2024

Incontinence in dogs can be distressing for owners and uncomfortable for pets. If your dog frequently leaks urine, has accidents around the house, or seems unable to control their bladder, you may be wondering, “What’s causing this?” Understanding the potential causes of dog incontinence and the symptoms they exhibit is an essential first step in managing this condition effectively.

Common Causes of Dog Incontinence and Their Symptoms

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

One of the leading causes of incontinence in dogs, particularly in younger or middle-aged dogs, is urinary tract infections (UTIs). When bacteria invade the urinary tract, they irritate the bladder lining, causing frequent urges to urinate or involuntary urine leakage. Typical symptoms of a UTI include:

Straining during urination
Frequent urination or urinating in unusual places
Blood-tinged urine
Increased licking of the genital area

Dogs with UTIs may experience a sense of urgency to urinate but produce only small amounts of urine. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from worsening or spreading to the kidneys. UTIs can be managed with antibiotics prescribed by a vet, and early treatment can help alleviate discomfort and avoid complications.

2. Bladder Control Issues (Urinary Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence - USMI)

Urinary Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence (USMI) is a common cause of incontinence, especially in older, spayed female dogs. In USMI, the muscles around the urethra weaken, making it difficult for the dog to hold urine in the bladder, particularly when lying down or relaxed. Symptoms of USMI include:

Urine leakage while lying down or sleeping
Dampness in bedding or on the floor where your dog has been resting
Frequent licking of the genital area due to irritation from urine leakage

Dogs with USMI often have accidents without attempting to urinate, and this type of incontinence generally responds well to treatment. Medications like phenylpropanolamine can help strengthen the urethral sphincter muscles, improving bladder control in affected dogs.

3. Age-Related Changes

As dogs age, they may experience a natural weakening of the muscles around the bladder, contributing to unintentional leakage. Cognitive decline in older dogs can also impact bladder control, as they may become confused about their toileting routine. Typical signs of age-related incontinence include:

Increased accidents indoors, even in previously well-trained dogs
Reluctance to get up for potty breaks
Confusion or disorientation about where to urinate

Frequent potty breaks and easy access to outdoor areas can help manage age-related incontinence. Scheduling regular veterinary check-ups is also recommended to monitor any health changes that may affect bladder control.

4. Hormonal Imbalances (Hormone-Responsive Incontinence)

Hormone-responsive incontinence is most commonly seen in spayed female dogs, stemming from a decrease in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining muscle tone in the pelvic and urethral muscles responsible for bladder control. When oestrogen levels drop, these muscles may weaken, leading to urine leakage. Symptoms of hormonal incontinence include:

Dribbling of urine, particularly when resting or lying down
Wet spots on bedding or furniture after lying down
Increased licking of the genital area due to urine leakage

Hormone-responsive incontinence can be manageable with hormone replacement therapy prescribed by your vet, which can improve muscle tone and reduce leakage.

5. Anatomical Abnormalities

Congenital anatomical abnormalities, such as ectopic ureters, are another cause of incontinence, often evident from a young age. In cases of ectopic ureters, one or both ureters bypass the bladder and connect directly to the urethra, which prevents urine from being stored in the bladder as usual, leading to continuous leakage. Common signs of ectopic ureters include:

Constant dribbling of urine
Dampness around the genital area
Noticeable odour from urine, as it frequently wets the dog’s fur and skin
Difficulty achieving complete bladder control

Ectopic ureters usually require surgical correction, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective management. Veterinarians can detect these abnormalities through imaging tests such as ultrasounds or CT scans.

6. Nerve Damage or Neurological Disorders

Nerve damage, often from trauma, spinal injuries, or degenerative neurological conditions, can disrupt a dog’s ability to control their bladder. When nerves involved in bladder function are impaired, involuntary leakage can occur. Symptoms of neurological incontinence include:

Weakness in the hind legs or difficulty with mobility
Reduced sensation or coordination in the back end
Urine leakage along with other physical or mobility issues

If nerve damage or a neurological disorder is suspected, it is important to consult a veterinarian immediately to provide a thorough assessment and guide treatment options. Physical therapy, medications, and supportive care may help manage neurological causes of incontinence.

7. Bladder Stones or Obstructions

Bladder stones or obstructions can also contribute to incontinence by causing partial blockage of the urinary tract, leading to urgency, discomfort, and sometimes incontinence. Bladder stones vary in size, from gravel-like particles to larger formations that can obstruct urine flow. Symptoms include:

Frequent attempts to urinate with little output
Discomfort or signs of pain during urination
Blood in the urine due to irritation from stones

Bladder stones often require prompt veterinary intervention, and treatments may include dietary adjustments, medications, or surgery, depending on the stone size and type. A veterinary diagnosis is essential to determine the appropriate management for each case.

8. Stress and Anxiety (Behavioural Incontinence)

Stress, anxiety, or sudden excitement can sometimes cause dogs to urinate inappropriately, known as behavioural incontinence or “excitement urination.” Dogs may involuntarily urinate when startled, frightened, or overly excited. Signs of behavioural incontinence include:

Incontinence in specific situations (e.g., when guests arrive)
No urinary leakage while the dog is relaxed or sleeping
Urination that appears linked to certain triggers or events

While behavioural incontinence is less common, addressing anxiety through behavioural training, creating a calm environment, and consulting a vet about possible anxiety-reducing treatments can help manage this type of incontinence.

Recognising the Signs of Dog Incontinence

Identifying the signs of incontinence in your dog early can make it easier to address the underlying cause and reduce discomfort for your pet. Here are key symptoms to watch for, many of which may overlap across different causes:

Urine Leakage: Frequent or constant urine leakage, especially when lying down, sleeping, or resting.
Frequent Indoor Accidents: A noticeable increase in accidents indoors, even in previously well-trained dogs.
Licking of the Genital Area: Persistent licking of the genital area, often due to irritation or infection from continuous leakage.
Strong Urine Odour: A stronger-than-normal urine odour around your dog, particularly if they often lie on absorbent surfaces like bedding.

Final Thoughts

By recognising these causes and symptoms, you can take steps toward diagnosing and managing your dog’s incontinence. Whether the issue stems from hormonal, neurological, behavioural, or medical causes, consulting your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is essential to help your dog live comfortably and maintain better control over their bladder.