Your senior dog is starting peeing in the house! What’s the problem?
Many pet parents think their old dog peeing in the house is a normal sign of canine aging, but it could actually be a sign that something’s wrong. In many cases, frequent urination in old dogs is actually a symptom of an underlying medical problem—one that should never be ignored.
Senior dog incontinence or urinating in the house might be a sign of an underlying medical condition, or perhaps even an emotional issue such as stress or a change in routine. If your old dog is peeing in the house, your first step is to see your vet to help rule out a medical problem.
Common Health Issues That Cause Old Dog Incontinence
Though you won’t be able to diagnose your dog on your own, do make yourself aware of the possible medical conditions associated with an older dog losing control or urinating in the house. This is important so you know what other symptoms to potentially look out for, which in turn can help your vet pinpoint the underlying medical problem.
Age: as dogs age, they may suffer from different health issues, behavioral & cognitive issues (such as canine dementia), poor bladder control, and more.
Mobility problems: just like us, dogs can suffer from mobility problems as they age. The cause may include arthritis, joint issues, and more. These can make it more challenging for your older dog to make it outside in time, which means more accidents in the house.
Health issues: senior dogs may suffer from age-related health issues that can cause them to lose bladder control. These include kidney failure, urinary tract problems, incontinence, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, and more. Infections can also cause bladder problems.
Emotional causes: changes in your dog’s life, the family, or your dog’s environment can cause confusion, stress, and anxiety in your senior dog. These can all lead to your older dog peeing in the house. Some dogs may also use this as a way to mark their territory, especially if a new pet has joined the family or you’ve moved to a new place.
If your older dog is having trouble peeing in the house, then it’s time to call the vet. Your dog would benefit from a checkup. The vet can examine your dog and run tests to see if there’s an underlying health issue. And if the problem is caused by emotional or behavioral problems, the vet is the best source of guidance and advice on how to treat the problem.
Always avoid scolding your dog when he’s older and having this type of problem. He may not be able to help it. And if the issue is caused by stress, then scolding will only make it worse.
How to Stop My Older Dog from Peeing in the House
The solution will depend on the vet’s diagnosis. If they’ve found your dog has a treatable health condition, then treating that problem may resolve your dog’s peeing in the house. For instance, if your dog has mobility issues caused by pain, then the vet may prescribe pain medication to make your dog more comfortable. If the vet finds your dog has a urinary tract infection, then treating your dog with antibiotics may resolve the problem.
Even so, there are some things you can do to keep your older dog from going potty in the house. Let’s take a look.
More potty breaks: retraining may not always be the solution, depending on your dog’s problem. So, you may want to consider adding more potty breaks throughout the day. If you must be away during the day, then it may be helpful to try using doggie diapers.
You’ll find doggie diapers are made to fit either female dogs or male dogs. So, be careful when buying diapers for your dog. Diapers are bought by the weight and size of your dog. The right fit is essential! There are some other options if you’d prefer to use reusable, washable doggie diapers.
These may not be the best option for all dogs. Some dogs tend to chew off the diaper while you’re away. The only way to see if your dog tolerates the diapers or not is to try them out.
3). Doggie pee pads: The pads can be placed where your dog is determined to pee in your home. They work to lock in both wetness and odor.
You might consider . They come in various sizes, so you can buy the right size pad for your fur baby.
4). Clean up: when your dog urinates in the house, it’s important to clean it up as soon as possible. Urine can sometimes have a very strong smell. It can also help your dog find his last pee spot, which may encourage him to go again.
final thoughts
Incontinence can be hard to deal with, and it can be stressful not only for you but especially for your dog. Your senior dog is getting these symptoms of old age, and it is hard for them as well. In dealing with incontinence, consider considering your pet’s physand emotional needs. They can feel embarrassed, or they can feel bad. At this time, our furry friend may need us, humans, more than ever, and they also deserve to live a comfortable life.
And this is NO reason to dump your old dog at the shelter, they deserve to be loved even more on their old age.. the life of your old dog will always trump a home (just clean it up in case they have an accident).
signed
a senior dog mom-a-holic