Doggy Go Whoopsie? 4 Steps To Care For An Over-Active Bladder

Posted on: 27 July 2016

Share

Bladder control problems are common in elderly dogs. That doesn't make it any less pleasant to discover the puddles with your bare feet. If your dog is suffering from incontinence, the first thing you should do is consult the veterinarian. Once the veterinarian has determined that your dog's incontinence is age-related, you can start making some changes to deal with the problem. Here are four steps you can take to keep your dog dry.

Reduce the Nightcaps

If your dog seems to have the most accidents in the evening hours, it might be time to reduce the nightcaps. After your dog has had its evening meal, remove its feeding dishes. Reducing the evening water intake can alleviate the accidents. If your dog becomes listless or lethargic after you discontinue its evening drinks, talk to your veterinarian. It might have underlying health issues that are being made worse by the lack of water.

Head Outdoors

If your dog is having a hard time making it through the morning without an accident, you might be waiting too long to go outside. To reduce accidents, try heading outdoors as soon as your dog wakes up in the morning. Don't head back inside until your dog has relieved itself at least once. If your dog is still sniffing around the yard after it urinates once, stay outside for a few more minutes. Age-related bladder control problems can make it difficult for your dog to empty its bladder on the first attempt. Allowing it to remain outside for a few minutes may give your pet enough time to completely empty its bladder before heading back indoors.

Know the Warning Signs

If your elderly dog has developed bladder control problems, it's going to start developing some warning signs when it's about to have an accident. By recognizing those warning signs, you can help reduce the number of accidents your dog has. Some of the signs your dog might exhibit include:

  • Walking in circles
  • Appearing restless or agitated
  • Sniffing the ground
  • Licking its genitals

Consider Diapers

Sometimes canine age-related incontinence becomes so severe that diapers become necessary. If nothing is working to relieve your dog's bladder control problems, it might be time to diaper your pet. Be sure to change them whenever they get moist though. Dogs are susceptible to diaper rash too.

If your elderly dog has developed bladder control problems, the tips here will help eliminate accidents. If the problem continues, or gets worse, be sure to consult with your veterinarian.