It can be stressful and confusing when a dog suddenly starts urinating in the house, especially if they were previously housetrained.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may constantly urinate in the house, what you can do, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Constantly Urinating in The House — Why It Happens
A dog that constantly urinates in the house often signals an underlying health or behavioral issue. Dogs may urinate excessively due to urinary tract infections, bladder stones, diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal conditions. Stress, anxiety, and territory marking can also trigger accidents in the home.
In senior dogs, cognitive decline or loss of bladder control may play a role. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to address the problem quickly to ensure both your dog’s comfort and your household’s hygiene.
Dog Constantly Urinating in The House: Common Causes
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection is one of the most common reasons dogs suddenly begin urinating indoors. Infections cause inflammation and irritation in the bladder, making dogs feel the urgent need to relieve themselves more frequently.
Owners may notice their dog producing only small amounts of urine at a time, straining, or even passing blood.
UTIs can be very uncomfortable and, if untreated, may spread to the kidneys and cause more severe illness.
Read more: Dog Constantly Throwing Up White Foam (What this could mean)
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones develop when minerals in the urine crystallize, creating sharp and painful stones inside the bladder.
These stones can irritate the bladder lining and lead to frequent urination or accidents in the house.
Dogs with bladder stones may show discomfort when urinating, lick their genital area, or have urine with a strong odor or visible blood. In severe cases, stones can block the urinary tract entirely, creating a life-threatening emergency.
Diabetes
Dogs with diabetes often drink more water than usual, which leads to excessive urination. This increased fluid intake can overwhelm even a well-trained dog’s bladder control, causing them to urinate inside the home.
Other signs of diabetes may include weight loss despite eating well, increased appetite, and lethargy. Since untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, early detection is crucial.
Kidney Disease
Kidney problems interfere with the body’s ability to filter waste and regulate urine production.
Dogs with kidney disease may urinate more frequently and in larger volumes than normal, sometimes indoors.
Other symptoms often include bad breath, decreased appetite, vomiting, and weight loss.
Because kidney disease can progress silently, frequent indoor urination can sometimes be one of the first signs an owner notices.
Hormonal Imbalances (Cushing’s Disease)
Cushing’s disease occurs when a dog’s body produces too much cortisol, a hormone that regulates many functions. One of the hallmark signs is increased thirst and urination.
Dogs with Cushing’s may also develop a pot-bellied appearance, thinning hair, or skin infections. Because this condition develops gradually, owners may not immediately connect the increase in urination with the other subtle changes.
Behavioral or Anxiety Issues
Not all cases of indoor urination are due to medical conditions. Stress, anxiety, or changes in the household environment can lead to inappropriate urination.
Dogs may also mark territory, especially if new pets or people are introduced.
In these cases, the dog may still be able to hold their bladder but chooses to urinate in specific areas.
Addressing anxiety, reinforcing housetraining, and providing a stable routine can help manage this behavior.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Constantly Urinating in The House
If your dog is urinating indoors, first rule out medical issues by scheduling a veterinary exam. Collecting a urine sample to bring to the vet can help speed up diagnosis.
At home, ensure your dog has frequent access to outdoor potty breaks, especially if they are drinking more water than usual.
Clean soiled areas thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to prevent repeat accidents. For dogs with anxiety or behavioral triggers, provide a calm environment, stick to a consistent routine, and consider crate training or designated potty areas.
Adjusting feeding and water schedules may also help reduce nighttime accidents.
Above all, avoid punishing your dog. Urinating indoors is often not a matter of stubbornness but a signal that something needs attention.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian promptly if your dog is urinating indoors and also showing other concerning signs such as blood in urine, straining, frequent licking of the genital area, or sudden weight loss. These symptoms may indicate infections, stones, or systemic illnesses that need treatment.
If your dog is unable to pass urine at all, this is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Delaying treatment could lead to severe pain, bladder rupture, or kidney damage.
Even in less urgent cases, a vet visit is recommended if indoor urination persists beyond a few days or is a sudden change in behavior. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s health and comfort.
Read more: Dog Blood in Urine No Other Symptoms (Why it happens)
Key Takeaway
When a dog starts constantly urinating in the house, it’s usually a sign that something is wrong, whether medical, behavioral, or age-related. Paying attention to accompanying symptoms can help narrow down the cause.
At home, provide support by increasing potty breaks, cleaning accidents properly, and maintaining a calm environment. However, persistent or severe cases require veterinary evaluation to identify and treat the underlying problem.
By acting early and compassionately, you can restore your dog’s comfort and prevent accidents from becoming a long-term challenge.