Understanding Your Dog's Urine Leak Control Problem

You may not know it but your dog's urine leak control problem may be more associated with its' sex than with any other issue. It is a proven fact that females have more issues with this particular problem than males. This article examines some of the more common causes behind canine urine leak control issues.

As mentioned above, your dog's leak control issues may be due to its sex. As a female dog gets older, the problem becomes more common. The main reason behind this is simply due to the weakening of the urinary muscles. Canine urine leak control problems can happen within any breed although some breeds tend to experience the problem more often than others. Collies, boxers, and Doberman breeds seem to be most affected by canine urine leak control issues. But, in truth, it can occur in any breed, and the occurrence will increase as the animal ages, regardless of sex.

SPAYING YOUR DOG

After a female dog is spayed, a condition called urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI) may be the cause of the urine leaking. Treatment for this condition is similar to options in older dogs, such as estrogen (hormonal) therapy.

It should also be noted that your female dog's urinary leak control problem may also be due to its reduced production of estrogen. This will occur after the animal has been spayed. Estrogen is needed to maintain strong muscle tone in the bladder and urethra. This loss of tone can result in canine urine leak control issues.

Many females can benefit from estrogen replacement therapy. This can be started by visiting your vet who can prescribe the proper medication. Males can also experience this problem when their levels of testosterone fall below certain levels. Again, your vet can test to see if this is the underlying cause.

One thing that many owners should keep in mind is that the dog's urinary leak control issues may not be associated with bad behavior. Too often owners assume the pool of fluid is a sign of the animal's change in "manners" for lack of a better word. To assume this is to put your pet in danger as nearly all trained animals will not suddenly begin to void in inappropriate places for no reason.

For a few animals, the best course of action will require minor surgery. The vast majority of those suffering from canine urine leak control issues, however, can be treated with meds.

It is possible that your dog's urine leak control is from a simple issue such as a urinary tract infection or a blockage in the urinary tract caused by mineral buildup or a bladder stone. If this is the case, your veterinarian may have conventional options such as medications. Antibiotics will clear up any infection. Stones may require a procedure to flush them from your dog's system.

You may even be able to help your dog by the way you care and feed for your pet. The urinary system is maintained by the frequency of urination and the PH or consistency of the urine itself. Special prescription diets available from your veterinarian are made to avoid the formation of stones. Also homeopathic remedies could help the body maintain the correct PH for killing bacteria. Increasing the number of daily walks can help to encourage increased urination and drinking.

The only way to know for sure what is causing the problem is to visit with your vet. He or she will be able to tell you what the problem is and how to treat it. Your dog's urinary leak control problem can mostly likely be solved fairly easily.

Understanding Your Dog's Urine Leak Control Problem

Jeff Grill is an editor of the Dog Health Guide and has written on many canine health problems. See this site for more information on your dog's urine leak control treatment options.

SPAYING YOUR DOG