Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my healthy older dog leaking small amounts of urine indoors?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed

I have a 6year old crossbreed bitch, every so often she will have a spate of having accidents indoors it doesn't look like she has fully emptied her bladder there will just be a small puddle or little trickle of urine on the floor .she has had these accidents even when she has full access to the garden , I just wondered if you had any suggestions as to what would be the cause she is otherwise a very healthy dog who has a good appetite.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 1st, 2017

I'm sorry to hear Buddy is having urinary issues. When finding accidents in the house, it is important to differentiate between an active urination (she squats to pee) and a passive urination (urine leaks out when she is sleeping). Active urination can be due to an infection, bladder stones, a growth, or diabetes, for example. Passive urination can be due to a urinary incontinence issue. I would recommend she be seen by her regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for her urinary issues, have any necessary testing done (urinalysis, bloodwork, X-rays) and get started on any medication that may resolve the issue. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    There could be a few reasons for her inappropriate urination. It could be behavioral, a urinary tract infection, urinary bladder stones, or urinary incontinence. Incontinence is common in older spayed females and usually responds to medication. I would recommend having Buddy checked by your vet to see if there is a treatment that can prevent these accidents!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Buddy may be having urinary incontinence as a result of decreased female hormones. Spayed female dogs can develop this problem and luckily there is medication that will control the leaking. Your veterinarian will check her urine first to make sure there is no infection or other issue then they can give Buddy a prescription. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help care for Buddy.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do quills seem to migrate deeper into my pet's body over time?
Why do quills migrate deeper into your pet? Licensed Vet Tech Angel Alvarado explains the body's response to foreign objects. Get expert insights from Petco.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored