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My old dog is peeing while sleeping. What causes this and how to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 12 years and 11 months old | 10 lbs

My 13 year old shih tzu lhasa apso mix has recently started loosing her bladder while sleeping. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2017

Urinary leakage is common in older dogs because the urethral sphincter becomes weak. She could also have a urinary tract infection so have your vet take a look at her to determine the exact cause. Your vet can do a urinalysis and bloodwork. If it is age-related leakage than your vet can prescribe Proin and see if that helps.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 2nd, 2017

    It appears that Doris has bladder inflammation (cystitis). This can happen with certain medications, but not the ones you have listed. Urinating at night, more frequently and urinating blood are all signs consistent with cystitis. Most commonly this is caused by a bacterial infection of the bladder and can be easily treated. It's best to take Doris to your vet. They will be able to test the urine and quickly obtain a diagnosis and treatment plan. I hope that helps and Doris gets better soon.

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    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 30th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Duke. Duke may be having a low grade urinary tract infection including cystitis (bladder) or urethritis (urethra). Both of these could lead to incontinence but also it could be age related and caused by other problems with the bladder and nervous system. It's best to get Duke checked out by your vet after giving them a detailed history. They can then run some blood tests, urine tests, x-rays if needed to identify a problem. Infections can be treated and some forms of incontinence may be treated with supplements or drugs. Good luck with Duke.

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    Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 19th, 2017

    I am sorry to hear that- I know how frustrating it can be! Some dogs do get incontinence and medication or other therapies can help in over 90% of these cases. However, since she is a senior dog, I would want to rule out an infection and other bladder problems first. In addition, some older dogs have arthritis that makes it uncomfortable to posture to urinate, so therefore they do not fully empy their bladders and retain some urine, which can exacerbate the problem. Helping the arthritis can also be helpful in these cases. I would bring all these concerns up with your vet and bring a fresh urine sample! I hope this helps!

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