Urinary tract infection in dogs is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the urinary tract. Females have a shorter urethra and results in a higher incidence of canine UTI in female dogs. However, urinary infections are frequent in male dogs as well. The symptoms of UTI are clearly visible, and acting in a timely manner is essential to prevent future illnesses.
Excessive Water Drinking
A dog with UTI will drink more water than usual. You will notice that the water bowl has to be filled several times per day. Dogs with diabetes also drink a lot of water. However, if you notice other urinary infection symptoms you can say for sure that the dog has UTI.
Excessive Urination
Excessive urination is a direct result of the excessive water drinking. A dog with UTI urinates lower amounts of urine in several episodes. Your dog will even urinate in unusual places in the house and less in the litter box.
Blood in Urine
Blood in the urine may be present in some cases of dog urinary tract infection. You should take your dog to the vet immediately if you notice this. However, blood in the urine may be a symptom for other diseases as well.
Fatigue and Behavioral Changes
A dog with bladder infection will be lethargic, less active and can experience behavioral changes. Your dog might be less affectionate, more irritable and can develop sudden aggressiveness.
Painful Urination
The infection causes pain when urinating, so your dog may refrain from urinating or you may even see him cry, strain or make unusual noises when urinating.
Spraying in the House
The dog feels pain when urinating and associates this pain with his usual urination spot. He will most likely be looking for spots to urinate and avoid the pain. He will spray all around your house.
Unusual Urine Odor
If your dog has a urinary infection, the smell and even the color of the urine will suffer some modifications. As a dog owner, you must be familiar with the regular dog urine smell. Whenever you sense a different smell, this may be an indicator of a health issue.
Seeing any of these changes in your dog should point to a urinary problem. A vet can establish the real diagnosis, and a urine sample is enough to confirm the infection.
The treatment can be with antibiotics or you may opt for homeopathic remedies. Pain killers are needed if your dog is in a lot of pain.
If left untreated, a urinary tract infection in dogs may cause kidney disease or even renal failure.
To prevent urinary tract infection, watch your dog's diet. Offer a combination of dry and wet foods and fresh water at all times. Change the water bowl at least once a day, so that it's clean. Bathe your dog and take him out for regular walks that will stimulate urination and make sure he urinates, and doesn't hold in the urine for too long, causing a build-up of bacteria.