Seeing blood in your senior dog’s urine is a frightening experience for any pet owner. While some causes may be minor and treatable, others can be very serious and require urgent veterinary care.
We outline the common causes of an old dog peeing blood, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Peeing Blood — Why It Happens
An old dog peeing blood can result from infections, bladder stones, tumors, prostate disease, or kidney problems. Sometimes trauma, medications, or systemic illness can also play a role.
In older dogs, the urinary tract is more vulnerable to disease, making conditions like urinary tract infections and cancers more likely.
Because blood in the urine (hematuria) is always abnormal, it’s important to treat it as a sign that something is wrong.
Old Dog Peeing Blood: Common Causes
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are one of the most common reasons an old dog pees blood.
Bacteria can enter the urinary tract, leading to inflammation of the bladder lining. This irritation can cause small amounts of blood to appear in the urine.
You may notice your dog straining to urinate, needing to go more often, or having accidents in the house. While UTIs can usually be treated with antibiotics, if left untreated they can spread to the kidneys and cause serious illness.
Read more: Old Dog Peeing in House (What it means and what you can do)
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones (uroliths) are hard mineral deposits that form in the bladder and can damage its delicate lining.
As these stones move around, they scrape the bladder wall and urethra, leading to visible blood in the urine. In some cases, they can partially or completely block urine flow, which is a life-threatening emergency.
Dogs with bladder stones may strain, lick their genital area excessively, or only pass small amounts of urine at a time. This condition is particularly concerning in older dogs, who may already have reduced kidney function.
Cancer of the Urinary Tract
Unfortunately, blood in the urine of an old dog can sometimes signal cancer, particularly transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).
This type of cancer affects the bladder or urethra and often causes persistent hematuria. Owners may also notice straining, frequent urination, or difficulty passing urine.
Because cancers of the urinary tract can progress quickly, early diagnosis is critical for improving comfort and treatment options. Any unexplained bleeding should be checked immediately.
Prostate Disease (in Male Dogs)
Older male dogs, especially those who are not neutered, are at risk for prostate enlargement or infection.
Prostate disease can compress the urethra, making urination difficult and sometimes leading to blood in the urine. Some dogs may also show stiffness in their back legs or pain when defecating.
Since prostate conditions range from infections to cancer, veterinary evaluation is necessary to determine the cause.
Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is common in senior dogs and can sometimes lead to blood in the urine.
When the kidneys become damaged, they may leak red blood cells into the urine. Dogs with kidney problems may also drink more water, lose weight, or seem more lethargic.
This condition is progressive but can often be managed with diet, medication, and supportive care if caught early.
Trauma or Injury
Sometimes blood in an old dog’s urine can result from trauma.
Falls, accidents, or even vigorous play can injure the kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract. In these cases, blood may appear suddenly and in larger amounts.
Because trauma-related bleeding may be linked to internal damage, emergency evaluation is always recommended.
What to Do If Your Old Dog Is Peeing Blood
If your old dog is peeing blood, the most important step is to remain calm but act quickly.
At home, ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water available, as hydration helps flush bacteria and toxins. Take note of the urine’s color, frequency, and any other symptoms such as straining, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Do not attempt home remedies without guidance, as blood in urine is always abnormal. Avoid giving over-the-counter medications unless prescribed, since some can worsen kidney or urinary problems.
Keep your dog comfortable, restrict excessive activity, and schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible. If your dog cannot urinate or seems in distress, treat it as an emergency.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should call your vet immediately if you notice blood in your old dog’s urine, even if it’s only a small amount.
Urgent veterinary attention is needed if your dog cannot pass urine, is straining without results, or seems weak and lethargic. These could indicate a blockage or severe infection.
If your dog’s urine contains clots, the bleeding is heavy, or symptoms appear suddenly, go to an emergency clinic right away.
In older dogs, it’s always better to err on the side of caution since urinary issues can progress quickly and may be life-threatening if ignored.
Read more: Old Dog Eyes Cloudy (Why vision changes matter in seniors)
Key Takeaway
Blood in your old dog’s urine is always a warning sign that should not be ignored. While urinary tract infections and bladder stones are common causes, cancers and kidney disease are also possible in senior dogs.
Caring owners can help by providing fresh water, monitoring closely, and seeking veterinary care promptly.
With early diagnosis and treatment, many causes of blood in the urine can be managed, helping your dog stay comfortable and live a better quality of life in their senior years.