Canine UTI Treatments

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is dangerous to your dog only if it goes untreated for a long period of time. A quick and complete cure is possible with early diagnosis and treatment. A dog that begins to urinate with increased frequency or shows signs of pain while urinating should be tested for a UTI. Once a UTI is diagnosed, treatments include antibiotics, homeopathic remedies, citrus juices and apple cider vinegar, hygiene, and hydration. Check with your veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment.

  1. Antibiotics

    • As part of the diagnostic procedure, your veterinarian will identify the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. Once he deterimines the bacteria, he will administer the appropriate antibiotic.

    Homeopathic Remedies

    • Homeopathic remedies stimulate the body's healing processes by introducing highly diluted versions of the substances that are causing the illness. Several over-the-counter combinations of herbal and homeopathic ingredients are specifically intended to treat canine UTIs. One example is called Goldenrod Horsetail Compound, which is made from goldenrod, horsetail, corn silk, pipsissewa, and juniper berries.

    Citrus Juices and Apple Cider Vinegar

    • Citrus juices can help by increasing urinary acidity.

      An effective home remedy for your dog's UTI is to give him citrus juice such as orange juice, lemon juice, or cranberry juice. The more citrus juices your dog consumes, the higher the acidity of his urine will be. Highly acidic urine presents an unfavorable environment for bacteria, and the infection will lessen.

      Much like citrus juices, apple cider vinegar can neutralize the bacteria in your dog's urine by increasing its acidity. You can effectively treat a UTI by adding ½ teaspoon of the vinegar to his food or water each day.

    Hygiene

    • Bathe your dog at least once a week as long as UTI symptoms persist. Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed will help prevent the infection from spreading from the urine to her urethra, the duct that transports urine from the bladder outside the body. The spread of a UTI to the urethra can be a serious complication.

    Hydration

    • A dog suffering from a UTI should drink as much water as possible, so make sure he has a constant supply. The water will help flush out the invading bacteria. It is also important that you allow him to urinate as often as necessary; a well-trained dog will restrain himself until he is taken outside.