Why Is My Dog Not Peeing?

You want your pets to be healthy. Part of maintaining your dog's health is monitoring them for any signs of problems before those problems become severe. One sign that something's awry — your dog not peeing — is a medical emergency. It's important to keep an eye on your dog's urination habits as an indicator of health and well-being and contact your veterinarian with any concerns.

So, what if your dog won't pee as much or as often as they usually do? Here's what you need to know.

First, determine whether your dog is trying to urinate and can't, or if they're posturing but just have an empty bladder. Some male dogs (particularly if they're intact, or not neutered) tend to mark vertical items with urine. In these cases, it's common to see them hike a leg without producing any urine. Some female dogs like to mark too. So, knowing your dog's personality and paying attention to changes in habits is key.

If you're not sure whether your dog is posturing or having trouble eliminating, or if you have any other concerns, call your vet for advice.

If your dog doesn't normally mark dozens of times every trip outside but suddenly starts urinating — or attempting to urinate — frequently, this could indicate a bladder or urinary tract infection. While this isn't generally an emergency, it does require prompt veterinary care.

If your dog truly can't physically urinate despite many attempts, this may indicate a urinary obstruction, which is a medical emergency. Bloody urine, lethargy, vomiting and appetite loss are all other possible signs your dog needs immediate medical attention. Some dogs may continue to attempt to urinate when obstructed, while others may stop trying altogether. Straining, dribbling or frequent unsuccessful attempts all signal it's time to call your vet.

Sometimes a stressed dog won't pee. If your situation has recently changed, it might not be a medical concern but an emotional or stress-related one. In these cases, everything else about your dog (appetite, activity level, attitude, etc.) will generally seem normal, and if you walk them long enough, they'll eventually urinate.

For some dogs, for example, urinating is a private matter. If you just adopted a new dog and are standing outside watching them, they might not feel comfortable enough to urinate. Or perhaps your dog is accustomed to going outside in a large fenced-in yard but you're traveling away from home or recently moved. If they're not used to it, walking your dog on a leash can feel a little too close for comfort. If your dog isn't accustomed to emptying on a leash, using an extra-long leash that allows for some personal space can help.

Some dogs can develop a urinary tract obstruction that physically blocks the flow of urine, or they may have a condition that affects lower urinary tract function.

Physical Obstructions

The most common physical cause of a dog not peeing normally is bladder stones that have moved into the urethra (the tube connecting the bladder to the exit). Not only are these painful, but they can interrupt urine flow. As mentioned earlier, this can lead to a total blockage, which is a medical emergency.

Other potential causes of obstruction in the urinary tract include anatomical abnormalities, such as:

• Enlarged prostate (male dogs only)

• Bladder tumor

• Urethral tumor

Underlying Disease

Another potential cause of urinary issues is neurological disease, which can lead to a condition called neurogenic bladder. Additionally, some spinal diseases, like intervertebral disc disease, can cause dogs to lose control of their back legs. Dogs with longer backs, like dachshunds and shih tzus, are at higher risk of this condition, but it can happen in any breed.

When the connection between the brain and the back half of a dog's body is interrupted, they can lose control of their back legs and bladder. Some dogs may have more obvious symptoms, such as dragging their legs, walking on the tops of their feet or losing the ability to get up.

In addition to physical obstruction or loss of bladder control, another potential cause of a dog not peeing is the inability to produce urine. This can result from severe kidney failure or lack of access to water for an extended period.

If your dog is straining to urinate but isn't producing any urine, visit your veterinarian right away. They'll likely start with a physical exam and may order a series of tests depending on their findings, such as X-rays to look for bladder stones, an ultrasound to look for masses or blood tests to evaluate kidney function. They'll likely collect a urine sample as well.

Some diagnoses, such as bladder stones, are treatable with surgical intervention. Bladder infections can be treated with antibiotics. Your vet will discuss the treatment options with you depending on the cause of your dog's urinary concerns.

Nutritional Support

Part of your dog's road to recovery may involve switching their food to a complete and balanced formula developed with their health concern in mind. For example, if your dog is prone to producing bladder stones, your vet may recommend a therapeutic food to help with existing stones and/or support long-term urinary health.

Part of being a great pet parent is monitoring your dog for anything amiss — and that includes their potty habits. Ensuring your dog has consistent access to fresh, clean water and a complete and balanced food is a wonderful foundation for well-being. From there, contact your vet with any concerns and keep regular checkups. The sooner you get your dog seen by a veterinarian for any signs of illness, the better their chances for a fast recovery.