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My dog pees and poops constantly. Could it be a neurological issue?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 5 years and 8 months old | 26 lbs

Our 5yr old jack russell has been having a bladder problem as he has been urinating constantly for the past 4 months. He also has bowel movements at will. Our vet suggests this is not normal and feels it may be a neurological problem and will not get any better and to go to a specialist which could cost 1000's of dollars. What would you suggest

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lotus Altholtz

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Lab Animal Medicine Specialist

Published on March 5th, 2019

Fecal incontinence is usually neurological as long as it is not diarrhea which can be due to food allergies, intestinal parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic stress colitis. Royal Canin GI dry and canned food may help decrease the volume of stool and is likely the best option for the fecal incontinence which is usually not treatable. Peeing all the time can be caused by renal disease, diabetes, cushings’s disease /hyperadrenocorticism or a UTI. Having a full CBC/Chem/Fructosamine bloodwork panel run + a Urinalysis and Urine Protein Creatinine ratio at another vet’s is an option to rule out these causes of the polyuria which can be managed with medications. Best of luck!

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Buckeye! I concur that Buckeye's symptoms are not normal. Your vet's suggestion to see a specialist is a reasonable one, as the specialist may have diagnostic and treatment suggestions for Buckeye that may help improve his symptoms and therefore his quality of life. The specialist will not perform any treatments or diagnostics without your consent, so the initial cost will just be for the examination and consult with the neurologist. You can let them know that you would like a breakdown of costs before proceeding with anything else, and they can work with you to help find a treatment plan that works for you and Buckeye accordingly.

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