Have you ever returned home after a tiring day only to be met with an unpleasant surprise –a puddle of urine on the floor? It can be disheartening to discover that your senior dog has started peeing indoors. However, this is a common issue and a part of the aging process. With patience and time, you will be able to adjust to this new situation.
I have a 15-year-old furry friend named Dido who also pees indoors despite going for regular walks. In his case, it may be a marking behavior. To manage the situation, I have him wear a belly band indoors, which he seems to be comfortable with. I just make sure to check regularly to prevent any discomfort or urinary infections.
House soiling may not always be caused by behavior-related issues as there could be an underlying medical condition leading to urinary incontinence. In this article, we will explore the common reasons why senior dogs may face this challenge and offer practical solutions to overcome it.
Exploring the Causes of House Soiling in Senior Dogs.
It is important to identify the underlying cause before implementing any measures. House soiling can be caused by medical conditions that affect bladder control or behavioral problems.
A few medical conditions that can cause urinary incontinence are:
- Arthritis. This condition limits mobility and difficulties going to the bathroom.
- Urinary tract infections, weak bladder, bladder stones, and prostate problems.
- Other conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances cause excessive drinking of water and frequent urination.
- Cognitive decline, also known as doggy dementia, can also make it difficult for your dog to remember their house-training routine.
Behavioral-related urination problems can be caused by anxiety and stress. Changes in household dynamics, such as the arrival of a new family member or a change in routine, can cause emotional turmoil that may manifest as house soiling.
If you notice sudden changes in your senior dog's urination behavior, it is essential to seek veterinary guidance and conduct a comprehensive examination to identify any medical conditions. Pay attention to when and where you are finding urine, when the problem started, if it's getting better or worse, if your dog needs to go outside more frequently, if he/she is drinking more water than usual, if you have noticed painful urination, or if your dog has any other unusual symptoms.
Effective Strategies to Stop Your Senior Dog from Peeing in the House:
1. Establishing a Consistent Routine
To keep your dog happy and healthy, it's important to establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and potty breaks. Just like humans, dogs thrive on stability and predictability.
Make sure your furry friend gets regular bathroom breaks throughout the day, especially after meals, naps, or playtime. Keep in mind that senior dogs may need more frequent bathroom breaks due to reduced bladder control.
If you have an outdoor area, make sure your senior dog can easily access it. Consider installing a doggy door so they can go outside whenever they need to relieve themselves.
Always provide fresh water for your dog throughout the day, and limit their water intake before bedtime to prevent accidents.
2. Addressing Anxiety and Behavioral Factors
As dogs age, they may become anxious due to changes in their routine or environment. To help your senior dog feel calm and secure, create a quiet space where they can rest during the day. If your dog has an indoor bathroom area, ensure that is in a low-traffic area of the house.
Another reason for anxiety in senior dogs is cognitive decline. To slow down the progression of this condition, provide mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and gentle exercises that are suitable for your dog's capabilities.
Anxiety-reducing supplements may also be helpful, but it's important to consult with your veterinarian first. Some dogs respond well to CBD oils or calming treats.
3. Handling Senior Dog Incontinence
If your dog is experiencing incontinence, it means they are unable to control their bladder or bowel movements. Signs of this include leaking or having accidents while sleeping, dribbling urine while walking, finding wet spots on bedding, or smelling urine or feces on your dog.
To manage accidents in the house, you can use doggie diapers or belly bands for male dogs. However, this may require some training and time for your dog to adapt. Additionally, you can put waterproof covers in their bed or other areas where they spend time, as well as place floor diapers in the house.
It's important to monitor your dog's diaper and clean the genital area regularly to prevent irritations and infections.
If the incontinence is due to an underlying condition, these solutions may only be temporary while you explore other strategies to address the cause. It's important to visit a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
4. Reinforcing Positive Behavior and Correcting Accidents
It's important to refresh your senior dog's memory on house training basics, even if they were trained when they were younger. You can reinforce positive behavior by choosing a potty word like "go potty" and using it right before your dog goes to the bathroom. When your dog finishes, reward them with a treat or praise. Repeat this process as many times as necessary until your dog associates the potty word with going to the bathroom.
If your senior dog has an accident, clean it up promptly with enzymatic cleaners to prevent them from establishing a repeat elimination spot. During the transition period, you can protect your furniture and carpets with waterproof covers or strategic placement of potty pads.
During the (re)training period, we suggest limiting your dog's freedom in the house. Pick the rooms where you spend the most time and keep an eye on them. If you notice any indication that your dog needs to relieve themselves, guide them to the designated bathroom area. If they go to the correct spot, be sure to reward them.
Final Thoughts
If your senior dog is urinating inside your home, it could be due to medical conditions affecting their bladder control or behavioral issues like anxiety and stress. It is essential to identify the root cause by paying attention to any other changes such as excessive water drinking, confusion, or signs of pain. We recommend visiting a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
To manage or reduce this behavior, establish a routine, provide mental stimulation, and address any medical concerns. It is also important to reinforce positive behavior and clean up accidents promptly to avoid repeat incidents. If your dog is experiencing urinary incontinence, you can use waterproof covers, doggie diapers, or belly bands.
Remember to be patient and approach the issue with love and care. Our senior dogs require our care now more than ever.
Reference
https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/urinary-incontinence-dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/senior-dogs-might-benefit-indoor-potty-training/
Katherine Ortega is a dog lover with over 10 years of experience in dog boarding and a top-rated dog sitter on Rover. Growing up with dogs, she gained experience in caring for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. Senior dogs have a special place in my heart. Find her at www.furryaging.com, where she artfully merges her two passions - writing and pets!
Dog Photo by Mike Burke on Unsplash
Author Photo by Katherine Ortega
