Dog Bladder Problems in Puppies and Adult Dogs
Dog bladder problems can occur at any age and for
many reasons. In this article you will find tips on
some of the more common reasons, however, if your dog
has never had any housebreaking issues before (or if
he demonstrates a change in his need to eliminate),
you should consult your vet to determine whether there
is an underlying medical condition that may require
treatment.
Puppies
Some puppies involuntarily urinate when they're
excited. Others may urinate in submission when in
the presence of a "dominant" animal.
Puppy training is not normally required to correct
this problem as most puppies will outgrow it in a calm,
steady home. Try to figure out what causes your pup to pee, and
then avoid the situation until he gains better control
of his bladder (for example, if your pup urinates when
you make a sudden movement towards him, then make sure
you move more slowly when around him). Be patient and
clean up the mess without making a big deal out of it.
Dogs Who Have Suffered Abuse
Perhaps you adopted a stray or a shelter dog and you don't
have much information on his background. Some dogs have
unfortunately suffered abuse and may urinate submissively
in certain "trigger" situations. Again, clean
up the mess without fuss and get on with your day.
In some cases, the dog will learn that he has no
need to fear in his new & loving home, and will
outgrow this behavior. However, you should be prepared
to accept that this behavior may not ever go away. Try
to determine what triggers the behavior and minimize
or avoid it.
This behavior may be a little inconvenient, but
many previously abused dogs make excellent companions.
They deserve a second chance!
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is when urine involuntarily
leaks from the bladder. This is more commonly seen in
adult and older dogs. One of the most common signs is
the leakage of a small amount of urine while the dog is
sleeping or resting (dogs will often "lick themselves"
in these situations).
A visit to the vet is in order. Your vet can check
to make sure that there aren't any serious conditions
causing the incontinence. Treatment is available
to help control the condition.
Old Dog Health Problems
Many changes occur in our dogs as they age. If your
senior dog begins to soil the house, shows any other
change in housebreaking, or shows a change in his need
to urinate or eliminate, please take him to the vet for
consultation. Your vet will help you to assess whether
the bladder problems are simply part of the normal aging
process or whether there may be a medical condition that
needs treatment.
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