First, Explore Drinking Habits
If a dog consumes more water than its bladder can hold, it may have no choice but to inappropriately piddle. While all dogs are different, the average consumption should be one-half to one ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. If more water is consumed, several factors may be at play. First, work with a vet to ensure that the dog isn’t drinking excessively due to diabetes, a bladder infection, or other health condition that can lead to excessive thirst. Of course, the cause could simply be that your dog likes drinking water! If that’s the case, lab tests assessing diluted urine are available to show if a dog is consuming too much water.
Life Happenings
Urinating out of turn can be a reaction to a psychological trigger rather than a physical problem. This type of “oops” problem goes away when the cause of stress is eliminated. From sudden or loud sounds to changes in the family to perceived aggression, fixing the issue will fix the puddles. Another consideration? The age of a pet. Older dogs experiencing cognitive dysfunction can “unlearn” their potty training. This is another issue to address with a vet, along with any reasons for behavioral problems resulting in peeing.
Addressing Incontinence Safely
If none of these reasons apply, it’s time to consider the possibility that the canine is experiencing a weak bladder sphincter or weakening bladder muscle tone. Although it can happen to any dog at any age, incontinence is most often seen in spayed female dogs and obese or aging pets. It’s so common that one in five older female dogs is affected.
While many prescription medications are available to stop incontinence, they also have a wide range of side effects. However, there is an herbal remedy that provides a safe, natural answer for canines—a botanical called Icelandic angelica, technically known as Angelica archangelica. Grown in the harsh conditions of Iceland, this herb’s beneficial compounds become highly concentrated due to the intense arctic summers in which the plants experience 24 hours of daylight. Clinical tests confirm the herb’s ability to strengthen bladder muscles and increase bladder capacity. This well-studied plant extract can quiet the overstimulated nerves in the bladder and help reduce your furry friend’s feelings of urgency to urinate. To make sure you’re giving your pup the real deal, look for Angelica archangelica leaf extract on the Supplement Facts label.
Telltale Signs of Incontinence
Puddles or wet carpeting aren’t the only signs that your dog had an accident. Here are some clues that your dog may be suffering from incontinence.
- Urine smell around the dog or bedding
- Damp legs, especially in a long-haired breed
- Scalding on the skin where contact with urine is happening
- Tendency to lick around the rear end