by Andrew Garcia
Jun 03, 2022
3 minute read
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Your Dog’s Diet Is Essential
- What Is Normal Urination in Dogs?
- What Are the Causes of Urinary Tract Diseases in Dogs?
- What Are Urinary Health Problems Present in Dogs?
- Signs Of Urinary Health Problems In Dogs
- Conclusively
The function of the urinary system is to reduce your dog’s risk of developing certain health issues. And the
health of your dog’s urinary system depends on his diet. In addition, diet limits the precursors for stones and
affects your dog’s urine pH. It also encourages dilution, which prevents urine
supersaturation.
Your Dog’s Diet Is Essential
Your dog’s food can exert significant effects on his urinary tract health. However, even if your dog is yet to
experience any urinary health issues, consuming the proper diet can prevent these problems from developing.
Therefore, consider switching to a diet supporting your dog’s urinary well-being for maximum wellness.
You may have noticed that most dog foods in the market are dried. This is necessary for preserving the food and
extending its shelf life. Usually, the quantity of water in dog food is not up to the standard water
requirements.
Furthermore, starch is a constant component in almost all dog foods. But unfortunately, your dog’s body stores
unabsorbed starch as fat. The excess fat then burdens the kidney and liver, which forces your dog to develop
urinary system problems.
Check to learn about urinary health problems in
cats.
What Is Normal Urination in Dogs?
What is considered to be normal urination in dogs varies. Dogs need to pee at least three times a day to empty
their bladders. Nevertheless, most pups may urinate over 20 times on a single walk to mark their territory. If
this is the case with your dog, there is no cause for alarm.
Conversely, if your dog typically urinates just once or twice, then strains to urinate several times with only a
little amount coming out, it could be an issue. It is, therefore, best to visit your vet immediately.
It is important to note that as dogs grow older, the frequency of urination might change. Older dogs may pee
more often. And the reason is not far-fetched - the muscles holding the urine in the bladder lose strength with
age, but it is not a significant issue. Nevertheless, if you are worried about your furry friend, you can talk
to your vet.
What Are the Causes of Urinary Tract Diseases in Dogs?
Primarily, bacteria are the cause of urinary tract infections in dogs. When bacteria enter your dog’s body
upwards through the urethral opening or if your dog’s immune system is weak due to a lack of nutrients, your dog
may develop an infection. Furthermore, bacteria develop when feces or debris enters your dog’s urethral opening.
E.coli is the primary
bacteria that cause urinary tract infection in dogs. Although more severe and less common,
other causes of urinary tract infection include cancer, kidney disease and stones, diabetes, bladder disease,
spinal cord abnormalities, bladder inflammation or infection, and prostate disease.
What Are Urinary Health Problems Present in Dogs?
Although bladder cancer is the most severe urinary infection and condition, several others exist. Some of the
most common urinary health conditions include;
Urinary Stones
Urinary stones usually grow in the bladder. And they occur when the minerals in a dog’s urine get too high and
build up. These stones cause complications, including urinary system obstruction, inflammation, and pain.
Viral Infection
When a virus enters a dog’s lower urinary tract through its urethra, it causes a viral infection. This infection
usually develops due to poor hygiene. Furthermore, viral infection results in pain and also leads to urinary
incontinence.
Crystals
Usually, urinary crystals do not indicate a severe health issue. This is because they are often part of your
pet’s natural metabolism. Although crystals are similar to urinary stones, they have a slightly different
makeup. Your dog’s diet and overall health affect his urine pH level, resulting in the development of crystals.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is usually a sign of kidney disease and urinary tract infection. Also, it indicates other
health issues. If your well-trained dog urinates frequently or has a lot of accidents, it is best to take him to
your vet immediately.
Signs Of Urinary Health Problems In Dogs
Usually, urinary health issues in dogs are present with several signs. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye
on your furry friend as a pet owner. You can prevent the development of severe health conditions when you spot
health issues early. The following section discusses some symptoms of urinary health problems in dogs. If you
notice any of these, consult your vet right away.
Bladder Control Loss
If your well-trained dog loses bladder control, it is a primary symptom of urinary tract disease. However, it is
essential to note that incontinence in older dogs is quite common but may not indicate a problem. Nevertheless,
it is best to have your dog checked if you notice any changes.
Excessive Water Intake
If you notice your pup drinking excess water in recent times, he most likely has a urinary tract problem. Excess
water intake also indicates other issues that pet owners need to find out as soon as possible. If you find your
dog drinking too much water frequently, it is best to have his health checked out.
Frequent Urination
Frequent urination, which is out of your dog’s daily routine, is one of the most common signs of a dog’s urinary
tract infection. However, this could be a sign of other health issues. Therefore, it is best to take your dog
for a check-up to be sure.
Excessive Licking
Usually, dogs lick their urethral to keep it clean. However, your dog may have discomfort or itching in a
particular body area if he licks that part often. Itching and pain lead to excessive licking. And excessive
licking indicates discomfort or itching.
Conclusively
Although urinary tract infections are common in dogs, they are more common in older dogs aged seven and above.
In addition, because male dogs have longer urethras, bacteria take longer to travel upwards. Consequently,
female dogs tend to develop urinary tract infections more. Once you notice the symptoms discussed in this blog
in your furry friend, you should take him to your vet and treat the condition to enable faster recovery.
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