Dog Not Urinating? What to Do Now
A dog that isn’t urinating may have a life-threatening blockage. - Seek emergency veterinary care immediately. - Possible causes: urinary obstruction, incontinence, infection, or behavioral issues. - Do not delay—delayed treatment can lead to kidney failure or bladder rupture.
Is It a Medical Emergency?
A complete urinary obstruction is an acute emergency. If your dog is unable to urinate, take them to a veterinarian immediately. Without treatment, the bladder may rupture or kidney failure can occur. Blockages are often caused by stones, which may be pushed back into the bladder using a sterile catheter or fluid pressure. If this fails, surgical removal is necessary.
Signs of Urinary Problems
Watch for unusual urine color, blood in the urine, or straining to urinate. Dark urine can indicate dehydration, but blood is a red flag. Also monitor for signs like dribbling, frequent urination, or wet bedding—especially if your dog is relaxed or asleep. These may point to urinary incontinence, which is not the same as a housetraining issue.
Types of Urinary Incontinence
Incontinence is the loss of voluntary bladder control. Common types include: - Hormone-responsive incontinence: Most common in spayed females and older neutered males due to low estrogen or testosterone. Treatment may involve phenylpropanolamine or, less commonly, estrogen. - Submissive urination: Often seen in young, excitable dogs. Urination occurs during excitement or stress, not due to lack of control. Most dogs outgrow this behavior.
Other Possible Causes
Urinary issues can stem from: - Urinary tract infections - Kidney disease or tumors - Endocrine disorders like diabetes or Cushing’s disease - Excessive water intake (polydipsia), especially in young puppies - Behavioral causes, such as water deprivation or anxiety
Some dogs drink excessively after being deprived of water, leading to overflow. Providing multiple small water bowls can help reduce this behavior.
What You Should Not Do
Do not assume the dog is just “not trying” or being spiteful. Submissive urination and incontinence are not intentional behaviors. Avoid punishment, as it worsens anxiety and does not solve the underlying issue. Also, do not delay care—especially if your dog is straining or showing signs of pain.
Frequently asked questions
Can a dog stop urinating due to stress?
Yes, stress can cause submissive urination, especially in young or excitable dogs. However, if a dog is completely unable to urinate, it’s a medical emergency.
How do I know if my dog has a blockage?
Signs include straining to urinate, crying out, restlessness, and no urine output. Blood in urine or dark color may also be present.
Sources
- Dog Owners Home Veterinary Handbook · Debra M. Eldredge · Chapter 15
- Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats · [Author not listed] · Section on Urinary Incontinence
- How Dogs Work A Head-to-Tail Guide to Your Canine · Daniel Tatarsky · Page 101
⚠️ Important: this article is a literature summary, not a case diagnosis. Every dog is different — breed, age, and history all affect the plan. For severe anxiety or aggressive barking, contact a certified behavior trainer or veterinary behaviorist.