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By Potty Buddy Team Published November 25, 2021

4 min

Do Puppies Get Bladder Infections?

A urinary tract infection is never nice, and sadly, yes, a puppy can suffer from bladder infections just like us humans do. Painful bladder infections can affect dogs of all ages, and could lead to further kidney issues if left untreated. Here’s how to identify the signs and symptoms of a bladder infection in your pup, and treat it quickly!

So, what causes bladder infection in puppies and dogs?

Pretty much all urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria. This bacteria, present in the environment or from your dog’s poop, can sometimes find its way into the urethra and up towards the bladder.

Any dog can get a urinary tract infection, but they are most common in older females. This is due to incontinence issues associated with age, and also that female dogs generally have shorter urethras.

Other factors that might mean your puppy or dog is more at risk include:

Having diabetes
A weakened immune system
Bladder stones
Cushing’s disease
Hypothyroidism
Abnormal structure of the urinary tract

One reason your puppy might be at risk of a UTI is if they’re holding their pee in for long periods of time. Which is why having a safe place for your little one to relieve themselves is super important. Especially in an apartment or if they need to be crated for some time. A Potty Buddy, with its ability to absorb liquid quickly and efficiently, can really come in handy here.

How to tell if my dog has a bladder infection?

Dog bladder infection symptoms include:

A frequent urge to pee, but very little actual peeing
Straining or appearing unable to pass
Crying out or whining when trying to pee
Blood in the urine
Out of character toilet behavior, such as peeing in the house uncontrollably
General discomfort, lethargy or sluggishness
Increased thirst
Loss of appetite
Licking genitals

A banner showing two dogs sitting on a blue and pink pee pad

A square banner showing two dogs sitting on pee pads

Of course, puppy bladder infection signs might be harder to spot, as toilet training may not be in full effect yet. So be sure to keep an eye on their general mood and other behaviors to help you decode the issue.

If left untreated, an infection can spread to the kidneys, which can cause fever and vomiting. If you notice these symptoms, be sure to see a vet right away.

How to help a dog with bladder infection?

If you suspect a UTI, try and see your vet ASAP. Early detection is the best way to reduce your dog’s discomfort.

Your vet will usually perform a urinalysis, to check for signs of an infection. They may take further scans if they are unsure of the cause of the infection, to look for abnormalities or possible bladder stones.

Once confirmed, dog bladder infection treatment consists of a course of antibiotics. Due to it’s uncomfortable nature, you might want to ask your vet if they can also prescribe a 24-hour course of pain killers too.

If you are interested in bladder infection home remedies for your dog, some anecdotal evidence suggests that supplements like D-Mannose, cranberry, probiotics or vitamin C can help to both ease and prevent UTI’s. Be sure to check with your vet first, however, as they may counteract with the antibiotics or be unsuitable for your particular dog.

If your puppy seems to have frequent UTI’s, speak to your vet about dog food with a low pH level. This can help to keep those nasty bacteria at bay. You can also ask your groomer to clip the area around their genitals closely, to help reduce the chance of bacteria spreading.

To help your pup feel more comfortable after their vet trip, provide plenty of fresh water and a warm and quiet place for them to recover. Sometimes a heat pad can help to ease the discomfort too.