How to Manage Incontinence in Dogs
Are you annoyed and frustrated that your dog keeps peeing in the house? Canine incontinence is the loss of voluntary control of urination that may cause your dog to pee – both small and large leaks – around your house.
Canine incontinence can be caused by many things, which at its core, can impact the health and well-being of your dog. Below, we are sharing more to help you to better understand what it is as well as how to manage incontinence in your dog with ease.
What’s the Deal with Incontinence in Dogs?
Incontinence is when your dog has trouble controlling their bathroom urges, leading to unexpected “oopsies” around your house. It can happen for various reasons, so don’t think they’re trying to get you back for not treating them on time! Let’s look at incontinence in more detail.
Urinary Incontinence
This is when your pup has involuntary leakage of urine, and it can be quite heartbreaking watching them in discomfort. This could signal weakening bladder muscles as they age, a urinary tract infection, a hormonal imbalance, mediation, or a disease, to name some common reasons. It is important to monitor any urinary issues and to alert your vet should the problem persist.
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence occurs when your pup can’t control their bowel movements. This condition is much less common; however, it may be related to cancer, inflammation, or dietary changes. In addition to looking at the bowels, observe any blood, odors, or licking of the perianal region, which could signify a problem.
Symptoms of Canine Incontinence
Observation is key when figuring out if your dog is suffering from canine incontinence. Below, we’re sharing more of what you should look out for.
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Frequent Urination: Is your dog making constant trips outside or producing buckets of pee?
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Dribbling Urine: Are you noticing little puddles of wet spots around the house from your dog? This can be a sign that something is off.
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Straining to Urinate: If your pup seems to struggle with starting or maintaining a steady stream, it’s time to take notice.
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Wet Fur: Dampness around the genital area? It could mean that your dog is leaking urine.
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Increased Thirst: If your dog is guzzling water and never seems hydrated, it means that they could be dehydrated from incontinence.
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Genital Licking: Have you noticed your dog constantly licking their private area? They might be feeling discomfort or irritation from urine leakage.
Understanding and making note of these symptoms can help your vet diagnose the seriousness of the issue and treat it accordingly.
Causes of Canine Incontinence
Canine incontinence can arise from various sources, each with its own set of difficulties. Identifying the cause is needed to find the right treatment. Here are some common culprits:
| Causes of Incontinence | Description | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) | Inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract can cause frequent accidents. |
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| Hormonal Imbalances | Reduction in estrogen levels, weakening the muscles around the urethra. |
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| Age-Related Changes | Decline in muscle mass, affecting bladder control. |
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| Chronic Illnesses | Diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, and Cushing’s disease. |
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| Neurological Disorders | Conditions affecting the brain, spine, or nerves. |
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Remember, these are just signs that could be potential causes of your dogs’ canine incontinence. It’s important to present these symptoms to your vet for a thorough diagnosis to help you get to the bottom of what’s happening and determine a treatment plan.
Treating Incontinence in Dogs
Canine incontinence can be stressful for both you and your dog! Let’s explore some strategies to help make life easier for the both of you.
Speak with Your Vet
When it comes to treating dog incontinence have a heart-to-heart with your veterinarian. Don’t be ashamed to brief them with your dog’s symptoms down to every detail. Ask them straight up, “Why is my dog urinating so much?” Think of your vet as your partner in solving the puzzle of your dog’s symptoms. They’ll do a thorough evaluation of your fur buddy to figure out what’s causing the incontinence. Whether it’s a UTI, hormonal imbalance, or something more complicated, your vet will offer tailored treatment options. They might suggest medication, dietary changes, or specific therapies designed to meet your dog’s needs. This collaborative approach ensures you’re treating the symptoms as well as addressing the root cause, which is a more effective treatment plan.
Pee Pads Are Your Secret Weapon
Dog pads are total lifesavers for managing your dog’s condition and keeping your home spotless! Your doggo’s “oopsies” will be a thing of the past with Scott® Pet Guard Advanced Dog Pads as they your pup much-needed comfort.
Place pee pads in all the hot spots where your fur buddy tends to have accidents. Puppy pad training helps teach your dog to relieve themselves in a designated spot making clean-ups a breeze. You can even use treats and loads of positive reinforcement as a reward. It’s important to find the right dog pad for your pup to get the best results.
Frequent Walks
Daily outings give your dog plenty of opportunities to do their business outside, cutting down the chances of indoor accidents. Plus, walks help stimulate their bladder and bowel functions, promoting healthier bathroom habits. Beyond that, the exercise and mental stimulation are fantastic for their overall health, easing any anxiety or behavioral issues tied to incontinence. They really grow confidence from this! It’s up to you how you want to schedule it, according to your dog’s needs and energy levels. If they respond best with short multiple walks throughout the day, then go ahead with that. If two long walks ease incontinence symptoms, then that’s your best bet.
Proper Grooming
Make it a habit of regularly checking and cleaning around your pup’s genital region. This scan helps ward off irritation from lingering urine. A gentle shampoo during baths can keep their fur fresh and free from unpleasant odors and potential infections. If your dog has a thick coat, regular trims can prevent urine from getting trapped down there. This goes a long way in avoiding discomfort and skin issues from occurring.
Maintaining Hygiene
Establish a regular cleaning routine. Tackle those accident-prone spots to prevent lingering odors and stains. Use pet-friendly disinfectants that zap bacteria and neutralize odors without harming your furry friend. This way, you’ll maintain a sparkling clean environment that’s comfy for everyone.
Help Your Dog Feel Right at Home
When your pup is dealing with canine incontinence, it’s important to create a comforting environment for them to boost their confidence. Start by setting up a plush, inviting bed in a quiet corner – think of it as their personal retreat where they can unwind! Add soft, comforting bedding and a few of their favorite toys to create a warm, familiar sanctuary that with soothe their senses.
Celebrate your dog’s toileting successes with positive reinforcement! Shower them with praise and treats when they use their designated potty spot on the puppy pad. This encourages good behavior, boosts their self-assurance and makes them feel proud of their progress.
Say Goodbye to Doggy Mess -- and Stress -- with Scott® Pet Guard Advanced Dog Pads
Scott® Pet Guard Advanced Dog Pads offers up to 100% leak-free performance with outstanding edge protection, making them ideal in your battle against accidents. These pads are designed for quality and convenience, featuring odor control technology that allows you to place them anywhere in your home without worry.
You can also find them in three convenient sizes such as:
L | G for pups up to 20 lbs.
XL | TG for dogs 20 - 60 lbs.
XXL | TTG for larger breeds 60 - 140 lbs.
Keep dog incontinence under control with Scott® dog pads.
