Even the most well-behaved dogs can seemingly forget their housetraining, leaving their owners bewildered and frustrated. While not every cause requires a trip to the pet hospital, some accidents may be symptoms of a larger issue, so it’s a good idea to have your pup checked out by a veterinarian. Here’s why your housetrained dog might be peeing inside.

Why Housetrained Dogs Regress

1. Urinary Tract Problems

Urinating in inappropriate locations is often a result of problems within the urinary tract. Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs), for example, are the most common infectious canine diseases, with 14% of all dogs affected at least once in their life. Other possible culprits include bladder inflammation, crystals in the urine, or bladder stones. Urinary tract problems must be treated at a vet hospital.

2. Illness

In well-trained dogs, reoccurring accidents can be a sign of a variety of health issues. Kidney failure, liver disease, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease can all cause house soiling. If you notice other behavioral or physical symptoms alongside housetraining regression, bring your dog to the pet hospital immediately to rule out illness.

3. Life Changes & Stress

If testing has confirmed a clean bill of health, the cause may be stemming from home. Big changes like a new baby in the house, a family member passing away, or moving can stress your dog out and result in accidents. Time may heal your pup’s nerves, but to help them through the process, take them out on longer walks and reward them with treats when they urinate outside.

4. Incontinence

Dogs that seem unaware of their house soiling may be suffering from incontinence, or the inability to control their bladder. Common instances include leaking in their sleep or as they walk. This condition is mostly associated with aging, but younger dogs can experience incontinence as well. Your veterinarian may prescribe medication to reduce the occurrence of accidents.

5. Old Age

As dogs reach seniority, senility or dementia can take root. These conditions might make your dog regress in their training or forget where they are. Such lapses can lead to dogs urinating indoors. Sometimes medication can help, but as other age-related problems develop, you may want to start using dog diapers.

If your dog is experiencing urinary issues, bring them to Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital for professional diagnostics and treatment. Families in the Cincinnati, OH, and northern Kentucky area know they can rely on this pet hospital for comprehensive animal health services. To schedule an appointment, call (859) 781-1800 or learn more about their services online.