Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my dog losing bladder control? Is it a UTI or behavioral?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 37 lbs

Hi :). My dog (1 1/2 years old) seems to be losing control of her bladder... I’m wondering if it could be a bladder infection? It started when I returned from a 3 week vacation which I left her with friends for the duration of. She was inside for the work day by herself when I am usually home with her and let her out every couple of hours... sound like that might be it? Is there anything I could purchase over the counter for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 11th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Charley is having urinary issues. Is she leaking urine when asleep/relaxed, or actively having accidents? If she is leaking urine (unaware that she is doing so, wakes up and there is a pee spot), she could be having incontinence issues. If she is having accidents, it could have a medical cause (urinary tract infection, bladder stones/debris, bladder inflammation, for example) or a behavioral cause (housetraining regression). I would recommend she be evaluated by a veterinarian and have her urine tested for any infection, etc; if it is an infection, she would need an antibiotic to help resolve it, which would not be available over the counter. If it is not an infection, a treatment plan can be decided on based on what may be going on. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While loss of bladder control can be caused by a urinary tract infection, urinary crystals or stones and certain other conditions that cause damage to the nerves of the bladder can be to blame as well. While there are certain bladder health supplements available for dogs, they will not treat the condition. I recommend having Charley seen by a vet as soon as possible. Your vet may take a urine and blood sample to determine the cause and prescribe antibiotics if needed. I hope this helps and that all is well with Charley!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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 is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored