Causes of Canine Urinary Incontinence

Incontinence is a disease that does not cause pain and with medication, a dog can regain bladder control. 

Urinary incontinence is a condition that attacks a dog's ability to control urine.  In many cases, the disease occurs when certain hormones decrease as part of the natural aging process.  Thus the development of incontinence has begun.  Dogs often struggle with incontinence as they age, with female dogs being affected more often than males. 

Clinical tests indicate that dogs who are six years or older, spayed females, mid-to large sized breeds, overweight dogs, and dogs taking certain medications pose the highest risk for developing urinary incontinence.  Many dog owners only become aware of the problem when they notice wet spots around their home.  Others become aware of a problem when they notice areas of skin irritation due to dribbling urine. 

A urinalysis can be done to evaluate the presence of red and white cells and bacteria.  Other diagnostic measures can be taken to rule out conditions that have clinical symptoms similar to urinary incontinence.  The presence of a bacterial urinary tract infection can be further evaluated with a culture and sensitivity.  Blood work and x-rays can give much needed information to establish a diagnosis.