By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
A dog that suddenly asks to go out every half hour, squats and strains with little result, or has accidents inside may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). Bladder infections are common, especially in female dogs, and most respond well to treatment. But the same signs can come from bladder stones, tumours, or diabetes, and a male dog straining without producing urine may have a blockage that is an emergency. Getting a urine test before treatment is the key step. For how antibiotics are chosen and why leftovers should not be used, see dog UTI antibiotics explained.
Key takeaways
- Most UTIs in dogs are bacterial bladder infections (cystitis). They are more common in females.
- Signs include frequent urination, straining, accidents, blood in the urine, strong odour, and licking the genitals.
- A urine test, ideally with culture, confirms an infection and guides treatment.
- Recurring UTIs usually have an underlying cause, such as bladder stones, diabetes, Cushing's disease, or anatomy.
- Straining with no urine coming out, especially in male dogs, is an emergency.
Signs of a UTI in dogs
- Needing to urinate more often, sometimes in small amounts
- Straining or discomfort when urinating
- Accidents in the house in a previously toilet-trained dog
- Blood-tinged, cloudy, or strong-smelling urine
- Licking around the vulva or penis
- Fever, lethargy, vomiting, back pain, or reduced appetite, which can suggest a kidney infection
Some dogs, particularly those with diabetes or Cushing's disease, have infections without obvious signs.
Common causes and risk factors
Most UTIs happen when bacteria from the skin or gut travel up the urethra into the bladder. Risk factors include:
- Female anatomy, especially a recessed (hooded) vulva
- Bladder stones
- Diabetes and Cushing's disease, which change urine and immunity
- Kidney disease, which produces dilute urine
- Urinary incontinence and skin fold dermatitis
- Spinal problems that affect bladder emptying
- Long-term steroid or immune-suppressing medication
- Bladder tumours, more common in older dogs and some breeds such as Scottish Terriers
When it is an emergency
Go to an emergency veterinary hospital straight away if your dog:
- Is straining and producing little or no urine, particularly a male dog
- Is passing large amounts of blood or blood clots
- Has a painful or swollen belly
- Is vomiting, very lethargic, or not eating
- Has a fever or back pain with urinary signs
- Cannot walk properly and is not emptying the bladder (see disc disease in dogs)
A blocked urethra can cause kidney injury and dangerous changes in blood potassium within a day or two.
How vets diagnose a UTI
Your vet will ask about urination patterns and examine your dog, including feeling the bladder. A urinalysis checks for blood, white cells, bacteria, crystals, and urine concentration. A urine culture identifies the bacteria and which antibiotics will work. The most reliable sample is taken with a fine needle directly from the bladder (cystocentesis), which is quick and generally well tolerated. For recurrent infections, your vet may recommend X-rays or ultrasound to look for stones or tumours, and blood tests to look for kidney disease, diabetes, or hormonal disease.
Treatment, in overview
Bacterial bladder infections are treated with an antibiotic chosen by your vet, ideally based on culture results. International guidelines recommend short, targeted courses for simple infections and longer courses for kidney infections or complicated cases. Pain relief may be offered for discomfort. Any underlying problem, such as stones or diabetes, needs its own treatment, otherwise the infection is likely to return. Some dogs have bacteria in their urine without any signs. Current ISCAID guidelines say these dogs often do not need antibiotics.
Prevention and long-term management
- Make sure fresh water is always available and encourage drinking.
- Give frequent opportunities to urinate, including before bed.
- Keep the genital area clean and dry, especially in dogs with skin folds or long coats.
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight.
- Manage conditions such as diabetes and Cushing's disease carefully.
- Ask your vet before using cranberry or other supplements. Evidence in dogs is limited.
- For recurrent UTIs, ask about a full work-up rather than repeating antibiotics.
FAQ
Can a UTI go away on its own?
Some mild infections may resolve, but untreated infections can spread to the kidneys, and the signs may be caused by something other than infection. A urine test is the safest first step.
Why does my dog keep getting UTIs?
Recurrent infections usually point to an underlying cause, such as stones, anatomy, or hormonal disease. A vet can help find it.
Can I collect a urine sample at home?
A clean, fresh sample caught in a clean container can be useful for some tests. Your vet may still need a sterile sample for culture.
Talk with a vet
If your dog is urinating more often or having accidents, our vets can talk through the signs with you by video and help you decide on next steps, including testing. Book a consult at dialavet.com. If your dog is straining and not producing urine, has a lot of blood in the urine, or seems unwell, go to an emergency vet hospital now.
References
- Weese JS, et al. International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID) guidelines for the diagnosis and management of bacterial urinary tract infections in dogs and cats. The Veterinary Journal, 2019.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Bacterial Infections of the Urinary Tract in Dogs and Cats.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If your pet is straining without passing urine or seems unwell, contact a veterinary hospital immediately.
