What Are the Causes of Incontinence in Dogs?
Incontinence in dogs occurs when the dog has uncontrollable urinary leakage. There are many causes of this condition, including infection, abnormalities, disease and hormonal fluctuation. Typically, an incontinent dog is unaware that it is urinating and will have leakage while sleeping and resting.
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Infection
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A urinary or bladder infection can cause a dog to have to urinate more often or in unusual locations. Although this technically isn’t incontinence because the dog knows it is urinating, pet owners should eliminate this as a cause of excessive urination by visiting their veterinarian.
Hormones
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There is a link between hormones and urine flow control. Older dogs or recently spayed or neutered dogs have hormone changes, and this can lead to incontinence.
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Birth Defects
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Some dogs are born with birth defects that cause incontinence, including an ectopic ureter or misplaced urethral opening. Two ureters or small tubes take the urine from the kidney to the bladder. A misplaced ureter can direct urine directly to the urethra or vagina, causing incontinence.
Excessive Water Intake and Disease
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Certain diseases cause dogs to desire excessive amounts of water. These diseases can include kidney disease, diabetes and Hyperadrenocorticism.
Incontinence or Excitement
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Some dogs, particularly when they are young, lose control when very excited or submissive. These dogs can urinate normally. An important difference is that an incontinent dog will have urinating problems while resting or sleeping.
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