Just like humans, dogs can suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs). Fortunately, UTIs are easy to treat in dogs as they are in humans. Most cases clear up after a simple round of antibiotics.

UTIs occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract. Dogs with compromised immune systems from a previous illness, stress or another cause, are more susceptible to developing UTIs. Serious complications can occur if the infection is left untreated.

How to Tell if Your Dog has a UTI

These infections are uncomfortable, so your dog will show signs of distress. The infection may occur in the urethra, bladder or kidney. Symptoms include:

• Blood in the urine – if the blood occurs at the beginning or end of the stream, the infection is most likely in the bladder. If blood is continuously present, the infection is probably in the kidney.
• Difficulty urinating – your dog may strain to urinate or cry out while urinating.
• Frequent attempts to urinate
• Accidents around the house
• Excessive licking
• Bad smelling, cloudy urine

If the infection is serious, you may see symptoms like:

• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Fever
• Tenderness in the lower abdomen
• Lethargy

Because these symptoms are similar to other conditions, a urinanalysis will need to be performed by your veterinarian to confirm a UTI. If your dog is acting abnormal and showing signs of distress, give your veterinarian a call.