Symptoms of Bladder Control Problems in Spaniels

Spaniels are prone to developing a number of bladder and urinary conditions. Some of these problems are not medical in nature. For example, a dog may inadvertently urinate when it is picked up, when it becomes overexcited or for no apparent reason. Other dogs may have physical problems that are characterized by symptoms such as difficult urination or abdominal pain.

  1. Submissive Urination

    • Some spaniels spontaneously urinate because they see humans or other dogs as dominant, according to the Humane Society of Silicon Valley. The website recommends having the dog examined by a veterinarian to make sure it does not have any bladder or urinary conditions that may be causing or adding to the problem. It also suggests avoiding eye contact with the spaniel, especially when first returning home after being away because the dog may get intimidated and urinate if it feels that it is being dominated. The dog may also feel that it is being dominated if the owner bends over its head or pats it on the head. The website recommends desensitizing the spaniel to excitement by exposing it repeatedly to the source of the excitement until it becomes bored. It also suggests offering the dog treats for not peeing in the house.

    Hereditary Nephritis

    • Spaniels are susceptible to developing a kidney disease called nephritis. This disease is passed down from the parents to their offspring. According to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database, it usually appears when the dog is between 4 and 6 months old. The symptoms of nephritis are excess protein (proteinuria), a lack of concentration (isosthenuria) and high levels of nitrogen (azotemia) in the urine. The dog will also experience a decrease in its growth rate. The disease can lead to renal failure and death if it is left untreated. Nephritis is incurable, but it can be treated through the use of a low protein diet and by encouraging the dog to drink more water. Spaniels with this condition should be spayed or neutered to avoid passing down this genetic disorder.

    Struvite Stones

    • Some types of spaniels are affected by struvite stones, according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. These are stones that form in the bladder and kidneys. Struvite stones are made primarily out of magnesium ammonium phosphate and calcium oxalate. Dogs with this disorder may need to pee often but have difficulty urinating or have accidents in the house. They often have cloudy or bloody urine and may also act as if they are depressed or uncomfortable. A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder through X-rays or radiographs. The disorder is treated by restricting the amount of protein in the spaniel's diet. More difficult cases are treated by surgically removing the stones.