Urinary incontinence in dogs

Urinary incontinence in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to worry

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Urinary incontinence in dogs

Urinary incontinence in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Urinary incontinence is a common problem, affecting around 2% of all dogs. It’s more common in middle-aged neutered females and usually responds well to treatment. Occasionally puppies are born with a more serious type of incontinence.

The most common cause of urinary incontinence in dogs is Urinary Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence, where the urethra becomes too weak to prevent urine dripping out of the bladder. In puppies, incontinence is often due to a birth defect called ectopic ureter(s). Urinary incontinence can also be caused by spinal disease or other nerve problems. Urine dribbling may lead to skin sores and increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Most causes of urinary incontinence can be either cured with surgery or controlled for life with daily medication. Talk to a vet as soon as possible if you think your dog is dribbling urine.

What is urinary incontinence in dogs?

Symptoms of urinary incontinence in dogs

Are some dogs more at risk of urinary incontinence than others?

How is urinary incontinence diagnosed in dogs?

What is the treatment for urinary incontinence in dogs?

How to look after a dog with urinary incontinence

Tips on how to prevent incontinence in dogs

When to worry about your dog with incontinence

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