One possible reason why your 15-year-old dog may have started peeing in the house could be due to a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are relatively common in dogs of all ages and can cause a range of symptoms, including frequent and urgent urination.
As dogs age, their immune systems may become weaker, making them more susceptible to infections. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to inflammation and irritation. This can cause discomfort and a strong urge to urinate, even if there is only a small amount of urine in the bladder.
If your dog is experiencing a UTI, you may notice that they need to go outside more frequently than usual. They may also exhibit signs of urgency, such as pacing, whining, or scratching at the door. When they do urinate, it may only be a small dribble due to the inflammation in the urinary tract.
It’s important to note that UTIs can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as blood in the urine, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and in some cases, lethargy or loss of appetite. If you notice any of these additional signs, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
To confirm whether a UTI is the cause of your dog’s house soiling, your veterinarian will likely perform a urinalysis. This involves collecting a urine sample and analyzing it for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and other indicators of infection.
If a UTI is diagnosed, your veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate course of treatment, typically antibiotics, to clear the infection. It’s important to follow their instructions and complete the full course of medication, even if your dog’s symptoms improve before the treatment is finished.
In addition to medication, your veterinarian may recommend supportive measures to help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and prevent future UTIs. These may include increasing water intake to promote frequent urination, providing a clean and easily accessible bathroom area for your dog, and possibly modifying their diet to promote urinary health.
While UTIs can be common in older dogs, it’s always important to consider other potential causes for house soiling as well. Aging can bring about changes in bladder control and muscle tone, and underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease or hormonal imbalances can also contribute to accidents indoors. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health or behavior, consulting with your veterinarian is the best course of action.