When a dog loses control of its bladder, it is typically a sign of a bigger problem and should be addressed by a veterinarian. If the problem continues without being treated, the underlying condition may worsen or cause damage to the bladder.
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Symptoms
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A dog that has lost control of his bladder begins to urinate more frequently. Dogs that live inside also start having accidents in the house, even if they are housebroken.
Diagnosis
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A veterinarian runs two or three tests to determine the cause of the loss of bladder control. These tests include X-rays, urinalysis and an endoscopy. An endoscopy is a tiny video camera inserted into the bladder.
Treatment
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Treatment largely depends on the cause of the loss of control and varies greatly. Treatment may range from giving cranberry juice for a short time to administering medication to surgery.
Common Causes
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The most common issues that lead to a loss of bladder control in dogs are bladder infections, urinary tract infections and urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI). USMI is a condition most often seen in female dogs in which the dog loses control of the muscle that stops urine from flowing.
Other Causes
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Several other conditions can cause a loss of bladder control in affected dogs. These conditions include diabetes, thyroid disease, Cushing's disease and kidney failure.
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