If your dog has not peed for 24 hours, it’s understandable to feel worried. Most dogs urinate multiple times a day, so going a full day without peeing is often a sign of an underlying medical issue that needs attention.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may not pee for 24 hours, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Not Peeing for 24 Hours: Why It Happens
A dog not peeing for 24 hours is usually experiencing urinary tract issues, dehydration, bladder obstruction, kidney concerns, pain, stress, or difficulty relaxing enough to urinate.
While occasional delays can be normal, a full day without urination is a red flag that something is disrupting the dog’s ability or desire to eliminate.
Dog Not Peeing for 24 Hours: Common Causes
Dehydration
Dehydration is one of the most common reasons a dog stops peeing. When dogs drink too little water, the body reduces urine production to conserve fluids.
This results in concentrated urine and far fewer bathroom trips. In some cases, a dehydrated dog may not urinate at all over a 24-hour period.
Dehydration can happen after vomiting, diarrhea, hot weather, strenuous exercise, or simply not drinking enough throughout the day.
When the body lacks water, the kidneys reabsorb nearly all available fluid instead of sending it to the bladder. While this is a survival mechanism, it can become dangerous quickly, especially if dehydration worsens.
Read more: Dog Excessively Drinking and Peeing (What it means)
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection can make a dog feel like they need to pee without producing more than a few drops. Pain, inflammation, and burning sensations cause the dog to avoid urinating, making it seem like they haven’t peed when they actually attempted multiple times.
Dogs with UTIs may lick the genital area, strain, whine, or show discomfort when posturing to pee.
The inflammation inside the bladder makes urination difficult or painful, leading the dog to hold urine longer than normal. Untreated UTIs can progress to kidney infections, making early intervention important.
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones can physically block the flow of urine, especially in male dogs whose urinary tracts are narrower.
Dogs may posture to pee but nothing comes out, or only small dribbles occur. Stones irritate the bladder lining, causing swelling and pain that make urination even harder.
A dog may go 24 hours without peeing if a stone is partially obstructing the urethra. These episodes can quickly become emergencies because complete blockage prevents the bladder from emptying, leading to bladder rupture or kidney damage.
Female dogs can also struggle with stones but are less likely to experience full obstructions.
Urethral Blockage (Emergency)
Urethral blockage is one of the most serious causes of a dog not peeing for 24 hours. Blockages can result from stones, mucus plugs, blood clots, trauma, or swelling. Male dogs, especially small breeds, are more prone to complete obstruction.
When a blockage occurs, urine cannot pass into the urethra, causing pressure to build inside the bladder. This is extremely painful and dangerous.
A dog with a blockage may pace, whine, strain, or try repeatedly to pee without success. The abdomen may become firm or swollen as the bladder overfills.
This cause is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Pain or Discomfort When Posturing
Dogs experiencing pain in their hips, back, abdomen, or legs may avoid posturing to pee. Conditions such as arthritis, spinal issues, cruciate ligament injuries, or abdominal pain can make the peeing position uncomfortable or impossible.
When a dog avoids squatting or lifting a leg, urine remains in the bladder for much longer than normal. Over time, this can lead to urinary retention, discomfort, and risk of infection.
Dogs with mobility issues may also urinate less simply because moving to the appropriate spot is painful.
Fear, Stress, or Environmental Changes
Some dogs refuse to pee in new environments or when stressed. A move to a new home, traveling, loud noises, new pets, or changes in routine can cause temporary urinary retention.
Dogs may also hold urine for long periods if uncomfortable eliminating in unfamiliar places.
A shy or anxious dog might go 24 hours without peeing simply because they are too nervous to relax their bladder. While stress-related retention usually resolves once the dog relaxes, long periods without urination can still be harmful.
Kidney Issues
Kidney problems can reduce urine production significantly or suddenly. When the kidneys cannot filter properly, urine output decreases or stops altogether.
Dogs with kidney issues may show additional signs such as vomiting, lethargy, appetite loss, or bad breath.
A dog with kidney dysfunction may appear to drink water normally but still fail to produce urine. This is a serious concern requiring immediate veterinary testing.
Side Effects of Surgery or Medication
Dogs may temporarily urinate less after anesthesia or while taking certain medications, such as pain relievers, sedatives, or steroids. These medications can alter hydration levels, bladder sensitivity, or kidney function.
After surgery, some dogs avoid urinating due to discomfort, fear, or the unfamiliar smells associated with clinics. While mild delays are common, a full 24-hour absence should be monitored closely.
Read more: Old Dog Peeing in the House (Here’s why and What to do)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Dog Not Peeing for 24 Hours
Begin by offering fresh water and encouraging your dog to drink, but do not force them. A small amount of low-sodium broth added to water may help. Take your dog outside on a leash to a quiet area where they normally pee. Stay patient and calm — stress can make the problem worse.
Observe your dog closely for attempts to pee. Notice whether they posture, strain, whine, or appear uncomfortable. This helps determine whether your dog is unable to pee or simply unwilling due to stress or pain.
Feel the abdomen gently. A full, taut, or firm belly may indicate a dangerously overfilled bladder. Stop immediately if the dog seems painful, as pressing too hard can cause damage.
Do not give human medications or attempt home remedies for urinary issues. Many can worsen symptoms or be toxic. Avoid assuming the issue will pass on its own — a full day without peeing can escalate quickly.
If your dog seems uncomfortable, lethargic, or distressed, seek veterinary attention right away.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact a veterinarian immediately if your dog has not peed for 24 hours and:
• Strains to pee but nothing comes out.
• Cries or shows pain when attempting to urinate.
• Has a firm, swollen, or painful abdomen.
• Appears lethargic, weak, or nauseous.
• Licks the genital area excessively.
• Produces only drops of urine.
• Has a history of urinary issues or bladder stones.
• Recently had surgery or started new medication.
A dog not peeing for 24 hours is a potential emergency, especially for male dogs at risk of blockage.
Read more: Dog Not Peeing (Causes explained)
Key Takeaway
When a dog is not peeing for 24 hours, the cause is often dehydration, urinary tract issues, pain, stress, bladder stones, or dangerous urethral blockage.
While mild delays can happen occasionally, a full day without urination should always be taken seriously.
By monitoring your dog closely, supporting hydration, and seeking timely veterinary care, you can help prevent complications and ensure your dog receives the treatment they need.