23/06/2026
🐶 Understanding Urinary Incontinence in Dogs
📌 What Is Urinary Incontinence?
UI means a dog leaks urine without awareness or control—often when relaxed or asleep. It can range from occasional damp spots on bedding to constant dripping throughout the day.
Common causes include:
• Weak urethral sphincter (common in spayed females)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Conge***al conditions such as ectopic ureters
• Neurologic disease
• Bladder or nerve dysfunction
• Hormonal imbalance (low Oestrogen after spaying)
• Secondary causes such as diabetes, kidney disease, Cushing’s disease, or medications
🐕 Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence
Your dog may have urinary incontinence if you notice:
Common Signs
• Dribbling urine, especially when resting or asleep
• Wet spots on bedding or furniture
• Red or irritated skin near the v***a or p***s from constant moisture
• Excessive licking of the ge***al area
• Urine scald or dermatitis around the hind end
What to Track at Home
Veterinarians rely heavily on owner observations. Be prepared to note:
• When urine leakage occurs (e.g., only at night, only at rest)
• Whether your dog drinks more water than usual
• If urination during walks is normal
• Whether symptoms worsen or improve over time
• Any signs of pain, straining, or frequent urination
Later in the week we will look at diagnosis and management of incontinence.
