Dog urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacterial infections and are more common in female dogs, with their shorter urethras, than male dogs. Urinary tract infections in dogs can occur in various places. In females, urinary tract infections can affect the vaginal wall and then the urethra while in males they commonly affect the prostate. Left untreated, urinary tract infections in dogs can lead to more serious, even left threatening infections of other major organs. As such, the ability to identify the symptoms of urinary tract infection during its early stages can save your dog a lot of discomfort.

Some symptoms of dog urinary tract infections include

• Frequent urination attempts
• Difficulty urinating
• Fever
• Tenderness in the abdomen
• Foul smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Inappropriate or sudden urination

As a dog owner, you should be aware of changes in your dog’s urination behavior. If your dog needs to go out more, appears to be straining to urinate, or suddenly urinates in inappropriate places, you should be aware that these are signs of a problem. Should you recognize the above symptoms, a visit to the vet is in order.

Often treating dog urinary tract infections involves antibacterial medications but there are also some preventative measures that you can take to avoid the outcome. Regularly bathe your dog so that their genital area is always clean and make sure your dog drinks plenty of water. Also, make sure that your dog has ample opportunity to urinate. As with humans, it’s unhealthy to hold urine for too long and this can increase the likelihood of urinary tract infections in dogs.

Urinary tract infections needed be serious conditions so be vigilant and visit the vet if you suspect a problem.