UTI in Dogs: Signs, Causes, and Effective Treatments Every Pet Parent Should Know

This pet health content was written by a veterinarian, Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD. It was last reviewed on December 11, 2024

If you have questions or concerns, call your vet, who is best equipped to ensure the health and well-being of your pet. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.

Understanding UTI in Dogs

Think your dog might have a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

UTI in dogs is a common condition, but it can range from being simple to more complicated. Keep these points in mind:

• Don’t ignore any changes in your dog’s urination habits, such as frequent urination, straining, or accidents in the house.
• Addressing a UTI promptly is crucial because the longer you wait, the harder it will be to cure.
• Cat urinary problems are different, so the information here applies only to dogs.

If you notice these signs, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure your dog gets the care they need.

Signs and Symptoms of UTI in Dogs

UTI in dogs can present in various ways. Here are some common scenarios pet parents often report:

• “My dog went for a normal walk but peed 5–6 times during the walk. Then she squatted, and nothing came out.”
• “I noticed my dog has been urinating more than usual, and the urine looked a little pink.”
• “My dog peed on the snow, and it’s red!”
• “My dog is peeing in the house all of a sudden and licking herself.”

8 Common Signs of UTI in Dogs

Watch for these symptoms, which may indicate a urinary tract infection: Frequent urination Straining to urinate Blood in the urine Licking the genitals Discomfort or vocalization when urinating Loss of house-training Strong odor or color change in the urine Increased thirst

Common Causes of UTI in Dogs

UTI in dogs can stem from various factors, including: Bacteria in the urinary tract Bladder stones Tumors of the bladder or urinary tract Structural abnormalities in the urogenital tract

• Diseases such as diabetes mellitus or Cushing’s syndrome
• Medications such as prednisone that suppress the immune system
• Prostate problems in male dogs (bacterial prostatitis)

Risk Factors for UTI in Dogs

Certain dogs are more at risk for developing UTIs. They include: Female dogs Older dogs Female dogs with inverted vulvas Breeds susceptible to bladder stones Intact male dogs (not neutered)

Diagnosing UTI in Dogs

Diagnosing UTI in dogs starts with a urine sample, which is the gold standard for identifying the infection. A urinalysis provides crucial insights into your dog's urinary health.

If you notice any signs of a UTI or have concerns about your dog’s urination habits, your veterinarian may ask you to bring a urine sample to your appointment. In some cases, the sample may be collected at the veterinary hospital for better accuracy.

Collecting a Urine Sample at Home

Many pet parents think collecting a urine sample is difficult, but it’s often easier than it seems. Follow these steps to make the process smoother:

• Timing matters: Collect the sample during your dog’s first potty outing in the morning, as this provides a higher diagnostic value.
• Use the right container: A clean, dry (not sterile) shallow container works best for females, while a deeper container may be helpful for male dogs with a high, strong stream.
• Minimize contamination: Learn how to take a urine sample from your dog effectively by using disposable plastic containers with lids.
• Get help if needed: Ask a family member to assist—one person can walk the dog while the other collects the sample.
• Amount needed: Only a small amount is required. Even catching part of the stream can provide enough for testing.

Why Vets Prefer Sterile Samples

Although collecting a sample at home is convenient, many veterinarians prefer to obtain a sterile urine sample directly from the bladder for more accurate results. This method, known as cystocentesis, ensures minimal contamination and is essential for detailed tests such as urine cultures.

Getting the Urine Sample at the Vet’s Office

For some dogs, collecting a urine sample at home can feel impossible. If you’ve tried and failed, don’t worry—veterinary staff are experienced in handling this situation and can assist you.

Here are some tips to ensure success when heading to the vet:

• Prevent premature urination: Avoid letting your dog relieve themselves on the way to the vet. You might even leave them in the car briefly and ask a vet tech for assistance when you arrive.
• Watch for distractions: The many smells at a veterinary clinic may cause your dog to urinate too soon, potentially missing the chance to collect a sample.

If the vet staff cannot obtain a sample immediately, here are your options:

• Wait it out: Leave your dog at the clinic for a few hours to allow their bladder to fill again.
• Cystocentesis: Your vet may recommend collecting a sterile sample directly from the bladder using a needle, a method called cystocentesis.

This ensures an uncontaminated sample and is particularly useful for detailed testing like urine cultures.

What Is Cystocentesis?

The best urine sample for diagnosing UTI in dogs is collected directly from the bladder using a needle—a procedure known as cystocentesis. Key points about cystocentesis:

• It provides the most sterile urine sample, which is essential for certain tests like a urine culture.
• The procedure is quick, typically lasting about five seconds, and is generally nontraumatic for most dogs.
• While catheterization is a secondary option, it’s easier in male dogs than females, who may require sedation.

Understanding Urinalysis

Once a sample is collected, your vet will perform a urinalysis to gather essential information about your dog’s health. This analysis may be done in-house or sent to a lab, with results available within a day. Key components of a urinalysis include:

• Urine dipstick: Measures parameters such as glucose levels (to detect diabetes), pH, and protein.
• Urine specific gravity: Evaluates urine concentration using a refractometer. Diluted urine can indicate increased thirst or possible kidney issues or systemic diseases like Cushing’s syndrome.
• Urine sediment analysis: Examines the sediment left after spinning urine in a centrifuge. This process reveals:

By analyzing these elements, the sediment test can identify infections, crystal formation, or potential underlying issues beyond a simple UTI.

Urine Culture and Sensitivity Testing

A urine culture is essential for identifying the specific bacteria causing a UTI in dogs, such as E.coli. This test determines:

• Bacteria identification: The exact type of bacteria growing in the bladder.
• Antibiotic sensitivity: Which antibiotic is most effective for treating the identified bacteria.

To ensure accuracy, the sample must be obtained directly from the bladder through cystocentesis. This sterile collection method minimizes contamination and provides the best results for both culture and sensitivity testing.

When Is Additional Testing Needed?

In uncomplicated cases, a UTI may resolve after 1–2 courses of antibiotics with no further issues. However, if a UTI becomes recurrent (refractory) or resistant to treatment, further diagnostic tests are necessary. These may include:

• Radiographs: X-rays to evaluate the bladder and urinary tract; learn more about radiographs here.
• Ultrasound or advanced imaging: Detailed views of the bladder to identify abnormalities.
• Cystoscopy: Direct visualization of the urinary tract using a specialized camera.
• Protein tests in urine: To assess kidney function and other systemic issues.
• Additional urinalyses and cultures: To monitor ongoing infections or complications.

If a bladder tumor is suspected, a biopsy or surgery may be required for diagnosis and treatment. Here's a quick video with some more information:

Treatment of UTI in Dogs

Treating UTI in dogs typically involves a combination of veterinary-prescribed solutions tailored to the underlying cause. Key treatment options include:

• Antibiotics: The primary choice for bacterial UTIs to eliminate the infection effectively.
• Prescription diet: Specially formulated foods may be required to dissolve or prevent crystals and stones in the urinary tract.

Addressing Resistant or Recurrent UTIs

Resistant or recurrent UTIs can be challenging for both pets and their parents. These cases often require:

• Additional diagnostic tests to uncover underlying issues.
• Tailored treatment plans based on test results to address the root cause.

Do Over-the-Counter Remedies Work?

Despite popular belief, over-the-counter remedies like cranberry juice extracts are often ineffective for treating UTIs in dogs. As Dr. Susan Wynn, DVM, a leading holistic veterinary expert, explains, these supplements are not a reliable solution for urinary infections. It’s always best to consult a veterinarian for appropriate treatment options.

The Frustration of Recurrent UTIs in Dogs

For some dogs, UTIs can become a persistent issue, turning into refractory or resistant cases where the infection keeps returning.

Case Study: Flossie’s Story

Consider Flossie, a 9-year-old, 50-pound female spayed dog:

• Flossie is otherwise healthy and athletic, but her human notices bloody urine and straining to urinate every few months.
• After each episode, Flossie improves with a 10–14-day course of antibiotics.
• Unfortunately, financial constraints prevent further testing, such as cultures, sensitivity testing, or radiographs, to investigate underlying issues.

While Flossie might simply be prone to recurrent UTIs, additional testing could reveal underlying problems requiring targeted treatment.

Why Addressing Recurring UTIs Early Is Crucial

Ignoring recurrent UTIs or relying solely on antibiotics can lead to serious complications, including:

• Infection spreading to the kidneys (pyelonephritis)
• Development of resistant UTIs that are harder to treat
• Worsening of concurrent conditions that may go undiagnosed

Take Action Early

If your dog experiences recurrent UTIs:

• Follow up with your veterinarian after completing antibiotic treatment.
• Pursue additional testing, such as urine cultures, radiographs, or ultrasounds, to pinpoint the root cause.
• Addressing these issues sooner rather than later increases your dog’s chances of living a healthier, happier life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• Adams, Larry G., DVM, PhD, DACVIM. "Management of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections." Pacific Veterinary Conference. 2016.
• Ettinger, Stephen, DVM, DACVIM, and Edward C. Feldman, DVM, DACVIM. Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 7th ed. Saunders, 2010.
• Sykes, Jane E., BVSc (Hons), PhD, DACVIM. "Update on the International Guidelines on UTI." World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress Proceedings. 2017.
• "Recurrent UTIs: Use of Cranberry Extract." VIN. 2016-2019.