Sykesville Veterinary Clinic

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Why Is My Old Dog Peeing in the House?

Does your pooch have a case of the puddles? Is that something they haven’t done in years?

It can be quite alarming to discover your old dog peeing in the house. You’ve trained them well, and all these years they’ve faithfully waited to do the duty outside. But for some reason, seems like they’ve decided your home is the new fire hydrant.

Don’t get upset.

Afraid to say, it’s all a part of getting older. Now’s the time to head to your trusted veterinarian for a full check-up to figure out what’s going on with your old dog peeing in the house.

Read on so you’re well-informed for you and Old Yeller’s next appointment.

Age-Related Causes

Canine age is quite similar to humans- it just moves at a faster pace. As we all get older, our bodies start to falter and lose efficiency.

The most common cause of an older dog peeing in the house is that, simply, they can’t hold it like they used to. Their muscle tone has been reduced, and the control they once had over their bladder to wait until they’re outside is fading.

Not only that, but their hormones are changing as well. Particularly in spayed females, dropped levels in their hormones can lead to incontinence.

Your dog could also be undergoing kidney failure. An excess of toxins in the system means more urination needs to take place.

Lastly, your older dog might be experiencing canine cognitive dysfunction. It’s like Alzheimer’s disease–your dog simply has trouble remembering that peeing is something you’ve trained them to do outside.

Emotional-Related Causes

Drastic changes in your older dog’s usual routine can greatly upset and confuse your pet. This might be one way they’re acting out.

If you’ve just introduced a new dog into the family, you might find your old dog peeing in the house to mark their territory. If this is the case, some firm correcting might be all you need.

Stress and anxiety can also play a factor in your aging dog’s incontinence.

As dogs get older, they might begin to feel an impending sense of their mortality and vulnerability. They might have walked the walk during their younger years, but now they’re skittish over even the phone ringing. Loss of bladder control can be a side-effect to this new, stressful part of their lives.

Infections

Sometimes, however, it’s just a simple case of an infection.

Urinary tract infections affect dogs as much as humans. You’ll notice your dog wanting to go outside much more frequently, dancing around jittery.

Left untreated, a UTI can develop further and cause more problems. Like kidney stones or infection. Seek out the proper anti-bacterial medication to cure the infection before it gets worse.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Old Dog Peeing in the House

It’s best to contact your veterinarian immediately to find the cause for your old dog peeing in the house.

Often, the symptoms you notice are just the tip of the iceberg. Your veterinarian will be able to properly assess your dog’s incontinence, and find the best treatment available. It’s all part of regular care for your senior dog.