Urinary Incontinence in Dogs: Causes and Treatment

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Finding a damp bed after a nap is distressing for owners and dogs alike, but incontinence is often manageable.

What it is

Incontinence is the inability to control urine, so it leaks without the dog choosing. It differs from behavioral problems, such as marking and submissive or excitement urination. See why dogs pee when excited.

Signs

• Wet spots where the dog slept or lay
• Dribbling when walking
• Licking the genital area
• Skin irritation and odor
• A dog who seems unaware of leaking

Common causes

• Urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence, often in spayed females, especially medium to large breeds
• Urinary tract infection or bladder stones. See urinary tract infections in dogs and bladder stones in dogs
• Congenital anatomy problems, such as ectopic ureters in young dogs
• Spinal or nerve disease. See intervertebral disc disease in dogs
• Diseases that increase urine volume, like diabetes and kidney disease. See excessive thirst and urination in dogs
• Prostate disease in males
• Age-related weakening

When to see a vet

Book an exam for any new leaking, even if it seems minor. Urgent care is needed if your dog strains and cannot urinate, has blood in the urine, or seems unwell.

Diagnosis

Your vet will examine your dog and perform urinalysis and culture, bloodwork and sometimes imaging, ultrasound or neurological testing. Young dogs with leaking may need tests for congenital anatomy issues.

Treatment options

• Medication to strengthen sphincter tone, such as phenylpropanolamine, or hormone-based treatments in some dogs, as your vet decides
• Treating infections or stones
• Surgical or injectable procedures in refractory cases
• Management of underlying disease

Response varies, so follow-up is important.

Managing at home

1. Offer frequent toilet breaks, including late at night.
2. Use washable bedding and waterproof covers.
3. Keep the area clean to prevent skin scald. See how to bathe a dog.
4. Use dog diapers or belly bands if your vet agrees, and change often.
5. Keep records of when leaks occur.

Skin care

Urine can irritate skin. Gently wash and dry the area and ask your vet about barrier creams or medicated products if irritation develops.

Emotional support

Dogs may feel anxious about leaks. Respond calmly, never scold and keep routines consistent.

Common mistakes

• Punishing the dog
• Waiting too long
• Assuming it is behavioral
• Restricting water

Troubleshooting

• Leaks only when sleeping: tell your vet, as this is typical of sphincter weakness.
• Medication works then fades: recheck with your vet.
• Skin is red and sore: ask about treatment.

A simple plan

1. Record when leaks occur.
2. See your vet for tests.
3. Start treatment.
4. Manage hygiene and routine.

Real-life examples

A spayed lab begins leaking at night and improves on medication. A young spaniel is found to have an ectopic ureter and has corrective surgery. A senior dog's leaks are linked to diabetes. Causes vary.

Staying patient

Many dogs improve with treatment. Keep working with your vet to find the right approach.

Questions to ask your vet

Ask whether the pattern suggests sphincter weakness or another cause, which tests are needed, what side effects the medication may have, how soon you should see improvement and what to do if it stops working. Ask about monitoring for infection too, since leaking dogs are more prone to UTIs.

Night-time routines

Take your dog out late and first thing in the morning, limit water only if your vet advises, and place waterproof pads under bedding. Most owners find a consistent routine cuts the number of accidents and reduces stress for everyone in the house.

The takeaway

Incontinence is medical, not behavioral. See your vet, treat the cause and keep your dog comfortable.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.