Dog urinary incontinence happens when your dog can’t fully control her bladder, leading to accidental leaks.

It’s not your dog’s fault—it’s often caused by issues with the bladder or the muscles that keep things in check.

You might notice little puddles where your dog has been napping or that her back legs seem damp.

While it’s frustrating, these accidents usually mean there’s an underlying health issue, not just bad manners. Let's take a closer look at urinary incontinence in dogs and how natural remedies can help.

Why Natural Remedies For Urinary Incontinence?

Natural remedies can help manage urinary incontinence without relying on medications that sometimes come with side effects. They work by strengthening your dog’s bladder, supporting hormone balance, and supporting a healthy inflammation response.

The best part? These remedies don’t just mask the symptoms—they often address the root causes, helping your dog feel better long-term. Plus, natural treatments can be a safer, more holistic option to keep your pup happy and healthy.

Urinary Incontinence In Dogs Symptoms

The most common sign of incontinence is wet spots on your dog’s bed or wherever she's been lying down. Her fur, especially around the back legs and hindquarters, might also feel damp or look a little messy.

You might notice your dog licking her private area more than usual. This is her way of trying to clean up after herself, but constant dampness can irritate her skin and even cause redness or infections if not addressed.

Some dogs leak when they’re excited, scared, or feeling nervous. You might see this during playtime, when she meets someone new, or during stressful situations like thunderstorms.

In other cases, your dog might act uncomfortable while trying to pee. She could seem hesitant or strained, which might mean there’s something more serious going on, like an infection or inflammation. Keep an eye on these behaviors—they’re your dog’s way of saying something’s not right.

What Causes Urinary Incontinence In Dogs?

There are essentially two broad categories of things that cause urinary incontinence in dogs: medical conditions and lifestyle factors.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions in male dogs and female dogs can make them more prone to urinary incontinence.

Spayed female dogs often develop urinary incontinence due to low estrogen levels. This hormone helps keep the muscles that control the bladder strong, so when levels drop, leakage can happen.

Neurological issues, like a spinal injury, can also mess with the signals that tell your dog when to hold and release urine.

Other health problems like urinary tract infections, kidney issues, or even severe arthritis can add to the trouble. If your dog struggles with mobility, it might make it harder for her to get outside in time, adding to the problem.

Lifestyle And Physical Factors

Sometimes, physical strain or overexertion can weaken the muscles responsible for bladder control. Younger dogs with certain anatomical quirks, like ectopic ureters (where the plumbing skips the bladder entirely), may dribble continuously because her body isn’t working quite like it should.

Hormonal imbalances from conditions like Cushing’s disease or thyroid problems can also make your dog pee more than usual, making accidents harder to avoid. Recognizing these causes can help you figure out the best way to support your dog.

Natural Remedies For Urinary Incontinence

Adding natural remedies to your dog’s routine can help manage incontinence effectively.

Wild Yam extract is a popular choice because it supports estrogen levels in spayed females and also has anti-spasmodic properties, which can help calm overactive bladder muscles. For dosage, consult a holistic vet or follow product-specific instructions.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, can support a healthy inflammatory response in the bladder and urinary tract while promoting overall health.

Bone broth is another fantastic addition—it’s packed with collagen, which strengthens bladder tissues and muscles. Just add a little to your dog’s meals to make a tasty, health-boosting treat.

If your dog’s incontinence is tied to nerve or muscle issues, chiropractic adjustments or acupuncture could make a big difference if you're looking to treat urinary incontinence. These treatments focus on realigning the spine and improving nerve function, which can restore better bladder control.

Homeopathy is another great option, offering customized remedies based on your dog’s specific symptoms and overall personality. Since choosing the right remedy can be tricky, it’s best to work with a qualified holistic vet for guidance. These approaches are gentle, non-invasive, and designed to support long-term recovery.

Preventing Urinary Incontinence

What your dog eats plays a huge role in bladder health. Switching to a high-protein, whole-food diet can help strengthen bladder tissues while boosting overall vitality.

Collagen supplements are especially helpful for dogs with weakened bladder sphincter muscles, as they provide the building blocks for tissue repair.

Avoid highly processed kibble or foods with synthetic additives, as these can strain the urinary system. Instead, opt for fresh, nutrient-rich meals, including lean meats, veggies, and bone broth for added hydration and bladder support.

Reducing exposure to household toxins, like harsh cleaning products or synthetic pesticides, can minimize stress on your dog’s system and lower the chances of incontinence. A calm and predictable routine also goes a long way in preventing stress-related leakage—regular walks and plenty of snuggle time can help your dog feel secure.

Another key tip? Schedule consistent potty breaks. Letting your dog’s bladder get too full increases the likelihood of leaks, especially in dogs prone to incontinence. A few extra trips outside each day can make a big difference.

When To Seek Veterinary Attention

While natural remedies work for many cases, some situations require urgent vet care. If your dog’s incontinence is accompanied by blood in her urine, signs of pain, or difficulty walking, it’s time to call the vet. Sudden onset incontinence—especially after an injury or suspected toxin exposure—should also be treated as an emergency.

Persistent or worsening symptoms, like excessive licking, swelling, or a strong odor, may indicate a more serious issue, such as a urinary tract infection or kidney disease. Don’t delay if these signs appear; prompt treatment is essential to avoid further complications.

Veterinarians use several methods to pinpoint the cause of urinary incontinence. Blood tests and urinalysis can detect infections, hormonal imbalances, or organ dysfunction. Imaging techniques, like ultrasounds or x-rays, are useful for spotting bladder stones, tumors, or anatomical abnormalities.

In more complex cases, your vet might recommend dye urography to map out any issues with the ureters or bladder. Once the root cause is identified, they can create a tailored treatment plan to help your dog regain bladder control and comfort.

FAQ

How do I help my dog with urinary incontinence? Supporting your dog’s urinary incontinence starts with natural remedies like omega-3 fatty acids, Wild Yam extract, and chiropractic care to strengthen bladder control. If your dog has conditions like urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence, consult a vet to tailor a treatment plan.

What is the most common cause of incontinence in dogs? The most common cause of canine urinary incontinence is hormone responsive urinary incontinence, particularly in spayed females due to decreased estrogen levels. Other causes include bladder storage dysfunction or physical abnormalities like an ectopic ureter.

Why does my dog leave a wet spot after lying down? Wet spots after your dog lies down could indicate involuntary urine leakage caused by conditions such as spay incontinence or weak bladder muscles. A vet can help diagnose urinary incontinence to determine the best course of action.

What do vets prescribe for incontinence? Vets often prescribe medications like phenylpropanolamine for dogs urinary incontinence to strengthen bladder muscles or estrogen supplements for hormone responsive urinary incontinence in spayed females. In cases of bladder infection or structural issues, treatment may include antibiotics or surgical correction.