Dog Urinary Tract Infections: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

When you feel that your Dog has a UTI, the dog might feel pain and discomfort when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing discomfort, pain, and even more serious health problems unless treated.

The urge to go outside more often, problems with peeing or even whining during peeing may be signs that something is wrong with your dog. Pets cannot inform us that they are not feeling well, we should monitor the early signs and treat them.

This guide will take you through all the information you need to know about Dog UTIs: what they are, what causes them and how to treat them early.

Understanding UTIs in Dogs

A urinary tract infection occurs when the urinary system is invaded by bacteria, usually E. coli. The urinary tract comprises the urethra (the tube through which urine passes out of the body), the bladder, and in extreme cases, the kidneys.

The bacteria may ascend the bladder when they gain entry through the urethral opening. When they multiply, they irritate and inflame the lining of the bladder. UTIs in dogs are associated with frequent urination, pain during urination, and alterations in the appearance or odor of urine.

Although a UTI can be easily treated, you should not neglect it. The infections that spread to the kidneys may be more complex and can be dangerous to the general health of your dog.

Why Do Dogs Get UTIs?

UTIs in dogs are not as rare as you might think and they normally occur when bacteria enter the bladder. There isn’t just one reason for dog urinary tract infections. Here are the most common reasons for Dogs' UTIs.

One large factor is not drinking enough water. A dehydrated dog has more concentrated urine and this may be the cause of bacterial growth. Thus, to prevent it, keep your pet hydrated.

Health conditions like kidney disease, bladder stones or diabetes may also predispose the dog to UTIs. This situation lowers the body’s defense system and gives a breeding ground to the bacteria.

By monitoring your dog’s level of water intake, urination and behavior, you can be able to detect the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Dog UTI Symptoms

Your dog is unable to tell you when something does not feel right, but their actions usually speak louder than words. A urinary tract infection (UTI) may result in some obvious changes in the way your pup urinates, behaves, and feels. The most frequent symptoms to watch out are the following:

1. Frequent Urination

The first indication is frequent urination. Your dog may beg to go out regularly or not be able to sleep the night without having to go potty.

2. Straining or Pain

When your pup is crouching and staying in that position too long, whining, or appearing to be uncomfortable when peeing, it may be a UTI.

3. Urine in Small Quantities

Your dog might not release much at a time as it would be a continuous flow, but instead, they release a couple of drops at a time since the bladder is irritated and feels full even when it is not.

4. Indoor Accidents

Even the best-trained dogs may begin to have accidents in the house when they are unable to hold on.

5. Blood in Urine

Hazy urine or blood in the urine are major red flags and are indicators of irritation or inflammation of the urinary tract.

6. Strong Odor

An abrupt change in smell, particularly a strong or bad smell, may be an indication of infection.

7. Excessive Licking

Dogs can also lick in and around their private area more than normal in an attempt to relieve the itch. This is the first thing that many owners observe.

8. Dribbling in Between Breaks

Dogs with UTIs can leak or dribble urine when they are not attempting to urinate.

How Vets Diagnose a UTI

When you take your dog to the vet with a suspected urinary tract infection, a number of steps are taken carefully to give clear answers.

1. Urinalysis

The initial stage is usually a urinalysis. The test examines the urine of your dog to detect such indicators as blood cells, crystals, bacteria, protein, and pH. It provides a good idea of the urinary health of your dog to the vet.

2. Urine Culture

The vet may run a urine culture to identify the exact cause. This laboratory test determines the exact bacteria causing the infection so that your dog can be treated with the right antibiotics rather than trial and error.

3. Imaging Tests

In some cases, the vet can recommend X-rays or an ultrasound. These will eliminate bladder stones, tumors, or structural issues that may be exacerbating the infection.

Proper diagnosis at the initial stage will help to treat it and avoid more serious complications such as kidney infection or recurrent UTIs.

Treatment for Dog UTIs

Most dogs recover fast when they are given proper care once they have been diagnosed with a UTI. Treatment can include:

● Antibiotics - Prescribed to combat the bacteria causing the infection. The average course of most courses is 5-10 days, but some stubborn or chronic infections may be prolonged.

● Pain relief- Anti-inflammatory drugs or pain killers may help ease urination as your dog recovers.

● Fluid replacement therapy- Consumption of lots of water to eliminate bacteria. A WOPET Pet Water Fountain is excellent for dogs that are not fond of drinking out of bowls.

● Follow-up test- Your vet might prescribe another urinalysis or culture to ensure the infection is completely cured.

Can You Prevent Dog UTIs?

Urinary tract infections are difficult to prevent completely, but you can reduce the chances. Some minor daily routines can take you a long way:

● Keep hydrated-Hydration is important to help your dog get rid of bacteria. Pet water fountains can make drinking more interesting for your pup if it’s a picky drinker..

● Give frequent potty breaks - Do not make your dog wait too long. Frequent visits to the bathroom reduce the chances of the growth of bacteria.

● Pay attention to nutrition. A healthy diet boosts the immune system and urinary health.

● Focus on nutrition. Good diet enhances the urinary health and the immune system.

● Routine Check-ups- Routine check-ups identify underlying issues like bladder stones or diabetes before they lead to an infection.

Supporting Your Dog’s Health Beyond UTIs

TIs are not the only health issues your dog may experience during their life. As a pet parent, preventative care is everything.

One of the easiest methods of reducing the chances of Dog UTIs is to keep your dog hydrated. Drinking lots of water flushes out bacteria from the urinary tract. Circulating water keeps them hydrated, and they drink more frequently, which is a big difference in their urinary health. A fountain like the WOpet Pet Water Fountain keeps the water clean, flowing, and appealing, making it easier for your pup to stay hydrated.

In addition to hydration, being aware of the overall health of your dog, including diet, exercise, senior care, and preventive routines, is a factor in ensuring your dog lives a long and happy life. Having a routine and the right equipment will leave you more equipped to deal not only with UTIs, but with any health issue that presents itself.

Final Thoughts

UTIs are common in dogs, and you should not ignore them. You can ensure the comfort and long-term health of your dog by learning the symptoms, going to your vet when necessary, and taking precautions to prevent infections.

Monitor bathroom patterns, ensure your dog is hydrated, practice proper hygiene, and take your dog to the vet regularly. The proper care will not only reduce the chances of Dog UTIs but also keep your pet happy and healthy.