A canine urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition that occurs when bacteria colonize the bladder and other parts of the urinary system. This bacterial presence causes inflammation and discomfort, making prompt veterinary attention necessary. UTIs are painful and, if left untreated, can potentially lead to severe complications, such as a kidney infection (pyelonephritis). Understanding the signs and the proper steps to take is the first line of defense for any pet owner.
Identifying the Symptoms
The most noticeable signs of a UTI involve changes in a dog’s urination habits and behavior. Owners often observe pollakiuria, which is the need to urinate with increased frequency, resulting in only small amounts of urine being passed each time. A dog may also exhibit dysuria, or straining and difficulty when attempting to urinate, sometimes accompanied by whining due to pain.
Another clear indicator is a sudden loss of house training, where a previously reliable dog begins having accidents indoors. The urine may appear cloudy or have a strong, foul odor. In more severe cases, blood may be visible in the urine (hematuria). Dogs experiencing irritation often excessively lick their genital area to soothe the discomfort.
Immediate Action: When to Call the Vet
If any of these symptoms are observed, contacting a veterinarian immediately to schedule an appointment is the appropriate next step. UTIs can escalate quickly, and a delay in treatment increases the risk of the infection traveling up the ureters and affecting the kidneys. While waiting for the appointment, owners should ensure their dog has constant access to fresh water, as increased fluid intake helps flush the urinary system and may provide temporary relief.
It is important to avoid attempting to treat the dog with human medications, even for pain relief. Common over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe side effects, including kidney failure and liver damage. Only a veterinarian can safely prescribe appropriate pain management. Providing frequent opportunities for the dog to go outside is also helpful, as this prevents the bladder from becoming overly full.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A definitive diagnosis of a bacterial UTI requires a sterile urine sample, which is typically obtained through a procedure called cystocentesis. This involves inserting a small needle directly into the bladder through the abdominal wall. This method is considered the gold standard because it minimizes the risk of external contamination. A simple urinalysis is performed first to check for signs of inflammation, such as white blood cells and bacteria.
A urinalysis alone is not sufficient to guide treatment. The sample must also undergo a Culture and Sensitivity (C&S) test. The C&S test identifies the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and determines which antibiotics are most effective against that strain. This targeted approach is necessary to ensure successful treatment and to combat antibiotic resistance.
Treatment for an uncomplicated UTI typically involves a course of antibiotics. Historically, courses ranged from 7 to 14 days, but current veterinary guidelines often recommend a shorter course of 3 to 5 days. Regardless of the length, it is necessary to administer the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if the dog’s symptoms disappear quickly.
A follow-up urinalysis and C&S test are generally scheduled about one week after the antibiotic course is completed. This post-treatment culture confirms that the infection has been completely cleared from the urinary tract. Skipping this recheck can lead to a relapse of the infection or the development of a resistant bacterial population.
Preventing Future UTIs
For dogs that experience recurrent UTIs, implementing long-term preventative strategies is important to maintain urinary tract health. Consistent access to fresh water encourages frequent urination, which helps flush out bacteria. Frequent potty breaks are also beneficial, as holding urine for extended periods allows bacteria to multiply.
Maintaining good hygiene is particularly helpful for female dogs or those with excess skin folds around the vulva, as routine cleaning prevents bacteria from ascending into the urethra. Some owners use veterinary-approved supplements, such as cranberry extract, though always consult a veterinarian first. Recurrent infections often signal an underlying medical issue, such as bladder stones or diabetes, requiring further diagnostic investigation and specific treatment.