Dog Abnormal Urination: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care 

Changes in your dog’s urination habits can be one of the first signs of an underlying health issue. Whether  your dog is urinating more frequently, having accidents, straining, or not urinating at all, these changes  should not be ignored.

Because urinary problems can escalate quickly, it’s important to recognize when something isn’t normal.

‍Common Signs of Abnormal Urination in Dogs 

Abnormal urination can present in several different ways. You may notice: 

• Straining or difficulty urinating 
• Frequent attempts to urinate with little output 
• Accidents in the house despite being house-trained 
• Blood in the urine 
• Strong or unusual odor 
• Excessive urination (large volumes or increased frequency) 
• Licking of the genital area 
• Inability to urinate 

Any change from your dog’s normal routine is worth paying attention to. 

Common Causes of Abnormal Urination in Dogs 

There are many potential causes of urinary changes, ranging from mild to serious. Common causes include: 

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 
• Bladder inflammation or irritation 
• Bladder stones 
• Kidney disease 
• Diabetes 
• Hormonal conditions 
• Prostate issues (in male dogs) 
• Toxin exposure 
• Urinary obstruction (a medical emergency) 

Identifying the cause early is key to effective treatment. 

When Should You Be Concerned? 

Urinary issues can become serious quickly—especially if your dog is unable to pass urine. You should seek care immediately if your dog: 

• Is straining but producing little to no urine
• Is unable to urinate at all 
• Has blood in the urine 
• Is showing signs of pain or discomfort while urinating 
• Is lethargic, vomiting, or not eating 
• Has a history of urinary issues or bladder stones 

A urinary blockage is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate veterinary care.

‍How We Diagnose Urinary Issues in Dogs 

At L&L Animal Urgent Care, we focus on identifying the underlying cause of your dog’s urinary changes. Diagnostics may include: 

• Thorough physical examination 
• Urinalysis to evaluate for infection, crystals, or abnormalities 
• Urine culture if infection is suspected 
• Bloodwork to assess kidney function and overall health 
• X-rays or ultrasound to check for stones or obstruction 

These tests help us determine the most appropriate treatment plan. 

Treatment Options 

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your dog’s symptoms. 

Common treatments may include: 

• Antibiotics for urinary tract infections 
• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications 
• Special diets to manage or prevent bladder stones 
• Fluid therapy to support kidney function 
• Procedures to relieve urinary obstruction (if present) 

Some cases may require hospitalization, especially if a blockage or severe illness is involved. 

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call 

Changes in urination are often an early warning sign of a medical issue. If your dog is having difficulty  urinating or you notice anything unusual, it’s best to have them evaluated promptly.

At L&L Animal Urgent Care, we provide same-day urgent care for dogs and cats—helping you get answers  and treatment when your pet needs it most.