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Why does my dog pee when relaxed or asleep? Is it incontinence?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Doberman Pinscher | Female | spayed | 9 years and 6 months old | 60 lbs

My 9 y.o. dobe weaned off prednisone months ago for a brain tumor diagnosis. She was on it for 2 weeks and she's basically back to normal now, but she keeps peeing while relaxed/asleep, an issue we had never had till she started the meds. Could this be permanent from the pills or from the tumor or? Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2020

It could actually be spay incontinence. Lack of estrogen may cause the urethral sphincter (a muscle used to control the exit of urine) to relax and release urine involuntarily. This can be treated with medication. I'd have Coco seen by a vet for this issue.

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