Bladder infection in dogs – signs and what to do

What you can do now

1. Contact your vet today.
2. Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
3. Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
4. Keep fresh water available.
5. Let your dog rest somewhere calm.

Don't

• Do not give any human medicine.
• Do not wait if it gets worse.

What it is

Bladder infections in dogs, also called UTIs, are usually caused by bacteria and are more common in female dogs.^[1] They can cause painful or difficult peeing, more frequent peeing and blood in the urine.^[1]

Signs

• Pain when peeing
• Straining to pee
• Strong-smelling pee
• Peeing more often
• Peeing in very small amounts
• Peeing in the house
• Blood in urine
• Licking their private parts
• Painful abdomen (tummy)

Causes and risk factors

• Bacteria
• More common in female dogs

How a vet finds out

• Questions about your dog
• Feeling your dog's bladder
• A fresh urine sample
• Blood tests
• X-rays
• Ultrasound of the bladder

How vets treat it

• Antibiotics
• Anti-inflammatories
• Pain relief
• Diet change

What the experts say

“Treatment for a UTI is likely to include: Antibiotics — a short course of antibiotics is usually an effective cure for a bladder infection. It’s important that you follow your vet’s instructions and complete the whole course of antibiotics.”

Common questions

Other conditions in dogs

Bladder StonesBlocked Anal GlandsBlue Green Algae PoisoningBrachycephalic Obstructive Airway SyndromeBrucellosisCancerCar sickness and motion sicknessCataractsCherry EyeChocolate poisoningChronic kidney diseaseCognitive Dysfunction