UTI is short for urinary tract infection. It’s a common canine issue that’s primarily caused by bacteria but can also stem from fungal causes on rare occasions. The infection commonly affects the bladder and urethra of dogs, causing deep discomfort and inflammation. 

The infection happens when bacteria, most often Escherichia coli, travel through the urinary tract of dogs and multiply while inside. These infections usually escalate and create more internal health problems, such as kidney failure. 

The symptoms start subtly, much like most infections. That’s why it’s crucial to get ahead. With that, we’ll talk about what a canine UTI is and how it is treated. 

How Can Dogs Get a UTI?

Canine UTI is primarily caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and move up to the bladder. In a healthy dog, regular urination usually flushes bacteria out. But if the bladder isn’t emptied fully or the immune system is weakened, the bacteria can multiply and cause an infection.

Other triggers of UTI in dogs include: 

Poor Hygiene and Grooming

Dogs with unclean genital areas or with poor overall grooming are at a higher risk of canine urinary tract infections. This is especially true for long-haired breeds or dogs with excess folds over their private areas.

The lack of grooming can invite bacteria to grow, which increases the risk of bacteria moving up to the urinary tract. 

Bladder Issues

Dogs who can’t fully empty their bladder due to conditions such as bladder stones or tumors can experience having residual urine in the bladder. This unflushed urine can become an ideal spot for bacteria to grow.

Congenital Abnormalities

Other dogs experience anatomical abnormalities within the urinary tract, which can pool urine and allow the bacteria to invade. One example is ectopic ureters. Normally, these tubes carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

In ectopic ureters, the urine is drained at an abnormal location, leading to leakage and increasing the risk of a bacterial infection.

Weakened Immune System

Dogs with compromised immune systems, either from age or illness, are more susceptible to infections. This also increases their risk of urinary tract infections in the same regard. 

Hormonal Imbalances

Female dogs that have been spayed can have lower estrogen levels due to the removal of the ovaries. This essentially thins the lining of the urinary tract and reduces muscle tone across the urethra. This makes it easier for the bacteria to invade and multiply. 

Other Health Issues

Other health concerns, such as diabetes and Cushing’s disease, also increase the risk of urinary tract infections in dogs. In diabetic dogs, the sugar gets into the urine, creating the perfect spot for bacterial growth. 

In dogs with Cushing’s, they have altered hormone levels and weaker immune responses. 

Which Dogs Are at Risk of UTIs?

While urinary tract infections can affect any type of dog, there are some that carry an increased risk. Female dogs have a shorter urethra compared to males, which means bacteria can spread faster. 

Older dogs are more likely to experience incontinence, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, which also increases the risk of canine UTIs.

Additionally, dogs who have excessive body weight can have more pressure on the bladder, increasing the risk of incontinence or urine retention. 

Common Dog UTI Symptoms

Canine urinary tract infections present subtle signs at first, which make them hard to identify. But as the infection progresses, it’s important to have them checked immediately. Here are the common symptoms of dog UTI:

• Frequent urination. Dogs who often go out more than usual but only pee a small amount could be a sign of bladder irritation caused by a urinary tract infection. They might squat or lift their legs multiple times in one bathroom trip.  

• Accidents in the house. Dogs with UTI will also suddenly urinate indoors when they usually don’t. These often result from the discomfort they experience, which can make it hard for them to hold their bladder. 

• Straining or pain when urinating. You may notice crying, whining, or noticeable discomfort when urinating. Straining is a common sign of a UTI.

• Blood in the urine. Blood can also be present in the dog’s urine, which can appear as shades of pink, red, or brown. If you notice this, it’s recommended to seek emergency care. 

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine. A cloudy appearance and a foul smell are often indicators of bacterial growth in the dog’s bladder. 

• Licking the genital area. Due to the constant discomfort and pain, dogs will instinctively try to lick their genital area to relieve the pain. However, excessive licking can also worsen the issue. 

• Changes in behavior. Dogs will also appear noticeably uncomfortable and stressed. They might be lethargic and choose to rest rather than play outside. 

Complications From Untreated Dog UTI

While UTIs can appear minor at first, they can progress to more serious issues and health consequences if untreated. These often include kidney infections, bladder stones, sepsis, and chronic pain. 

Kidney infections happen when the bacteria ascend through the ureters and reach the kidneys. This is a serious issue that will most likely require hospitalization.

Long-term infection of the urinary tract can alter the pH balance of your dog’s urine, aiding in the formation of crystals that can form bladder stones. 

While rare, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream of dogs affected by UTIs, resulting in sepsis, a life-threatening condition.