Understanding Canine Urinary Frequency: Essential Information
 |
| Understanding Canine Urinary Frequency: Essential Information |
How Often Should My Dog Pee?
Dogs appear to have an inexhaustible reservoir of urine for marking their territory. However, in normal circumstances, healthy adult dogs typically need to relieve themselves three to five times a day, as advised by Dr. Klein. The breed of the dog usually does not affect the frequency of urination unless the breed is predisposed to renal (kidney) issues.
Exceptions to this general rule exist. Puppies, for instance, consume more water, possess smaller bladders, and urinate more frequently, while older dogs may develop incontinence. Female dogs entering heat often urinate more frequently. Moreover, anxious dogs facing changes in their schedules, living arrangements, or other significant disruptions in their routines may start urinating indoors; the same applies to dogs experiencing separation anxiety or displaying submissive behavior.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Dr. Klein recommends contacting your veterinarian promptly under the following circumstances:
- If your pet exhibits signs of blood in the urine, lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting.
- Whenever your dog experiences difficulty urinating or is unable to pass urine at all. This situation is deemed an emergency.
- If there are alterations in your dog's frequency, color, or volume of urination.
Possible Causes of Frequent or Abnormal Urination
Detecting alterations in urination patterns can pose a challenge and demands the specialized knowledge of a qualified veterinarian, given the multitude of potential underlying factors. Below are some conditions your veterinarian might identify as potential reasons for increased urination frequency or volume in your pet.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can impact dogs of any breed, but they tend to be more prevalent in older canines and female dogs. Bacterial infection or a weakened immune system typically causes these infections. Common signs of a urinary tract issue in dogs may comprise frequent attempts to urinate, discomfort or vocalization during urination, and the detection of blood in the urine.
Urethral Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence (USMI)
Urethral Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence (USMI) is a condition that impacts approximately one in five spayed female dogs and typically arises around 2.9 years post-spaying. Reduced estrogen levels are thought to diminish bladder storage capacity and sensitivity, leading to urine leakage, particularly during periods of rest.
Prostate Disease
Male dogs might exhibit increased urination frequency due to prostate issues such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer. BPH affects around half of intact male dogs by the age of four, although many show no symptoms. Prostatitis often develops as a bacterial infection in unaltered male dogs, whereas prostate cancer is frequently observed in neutered males.
Pyometra
Pyometra frequently affects middle-aged to senior female dogs that have not been spayed, typically occurring within one to two months following their heat cycle. However, it can also occur in younger dogs. When a female dog isn't bred, hormonal changes during and after heat can cause thickening of the uterus lining, potentially forming pockets where bacteria can thrive and result in pyometra. Signs of pyometra include heightened thirst and urination, coupled with vaginal discharge tinged with blood.
Cystitis
Cystitis, characterized by bladder inflammation, can stem from various diseases and conditions. In dogs, cystitis is primarily caused by bacterial infection, emerging as the most common underlying factor. Additionally, bladder stones, tumors, or polyps in the bladder, along with anatomical irregularities in female dogs, can trigger this condition. Symptoms of cystitis in dogs often include frequent squatting, straining during urination, and the production of small urine volumes.
Kidney or Liver Disease
A dog with kidney disease may show signs of frequent urination, attributed to the body's reduced capacity to expel toxins effectively. On the other hand, liver disease can manifest through symptoms such as abdominal fluid retention and heightened thirst and urination.
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus stands out as the most prevalent type of diabetes found in canines. Symptoms of this metabolic disorder include increased thirst and urination. On the other hand, diabetes insipidus, while less common, stems from inadequate levels of antidiuretic hormone. Dogs experiencing this condition produce excessive amounts of diluted urine, prompting them to drink more water to compensate for the fluid loss.
Bladder Cancer
Typically, bladder cancer in dogs presents with frequent, small urination, urination difficulties, and the presence of bloody or discolored urine as the most common signs. Although bladder cancer is not widespread, it exhibits higher occurrence rates in specific breeds.
Cushing's Disease
Cushing’s Disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, usually arises from a tumor located in the pituitary gland. This condition frequently impacts older dogs, resulting in heightened thirst and urination.
Urinary pH Imbalance
An imbalance in urinary pH can create a breeding ground for bacteria and the formation of crystals or stones in the urinary tract. Signs to watch for include increased thirst and urination, urgency to urinate, bloody urine, or urination in inappropriate places. For optimal health, a dog's urine pH should ideally range between 7.0–7.5. Dietary ingredients can influence the pH level and overall urinary health in dogs.
Related Article : Managing Kidney Disease in Dogs: Recognizing Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options!