Signs your dog may have a UTI

This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 25 September 2026.

If your dog’s suddenly straining to wee, having accidents inside, or licking themselves more than usual, a urinary tract infection (UTI), sometimes called a bladder infection, could be behind it.

UTIs in dogs are common and treatable, and your vet is the best person to work out what’s going on and help get your dog feeling comfortable again. If left untreated, a UTI can become more serious, so it’s worth knowing the signs and acting early.

In this guide, we’ll take you through what causes UTIs in dogs, the signs to look out for, how they’re diagnosed and treated, and when a trip to the vet can’t wait.

Table of contents

• What is a UTI in dogs?
• What causes UTIs in dogs?
• Which dogs are more likely to get a UTI?
• What are the signs of a UTI in dogs?
• How are UTIs in dogs diagnosed and treated?
• How can you help prevent a UTI in dogs?
• When to see your vet urgently
• Pet insurance and its role in your dog’s care

What is a UTI in dogs?

A urinary tract infection, or UTI, happens when bacteria get into your dog’s urinary system and cause an infection. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra (the tube urine passes through to leave the body) although most UTIs in dogs affect the lower urinary tract, particularly the bladder.

A UTI can be uncomfortable for your dog, but the good news is that a vet visit and, if needed, a short course of treatment may be all that’s needed to help them get back to feeling like themselves.

What causes UTIs in dogs?

Most UTIs in dogs happen when bacteria travel up the urethra and into the bladder. E. coli, a bacteria commonly found in the gut, is the most frequently identified cause.

Bacteria can take hold more easily when a dog’s body is less able to prevent or fight infection. Certain health conditions can increase the risk of a UTI, including bladder stones, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease, and conditions that affect bladder control.

Some medications also suppress the immune system, which can make it harder for a dog’s body to fight off bacteria and may increase their risk of developing a UTI.

The relationship between bladder stones and UTIs can go both ways. Some types of bladder stones can develop as a result of a UTI, while stones that are already present can make a dog more susceptible to UTIs.

Which dogs are more likely to get a UTI?

Female dogs are more prone to UTIs than males because of differences in anatomy that make it easier for bacteria to travel into the bladder.

Dogs with an underlying health condition, such as diabetes, kidney disease, bladder stones, or a condition that affects bladder control, may also be at higher risk.

That said, a UTI can affect any dog, so it’s worth knowing the signs no matter your dog’s age or sex.

What are the signs of a UTI in dogs?

A UTI doesn’t always look the same from one dog to the next, but there are some common signs worth keeping an eye out for.

Common signs may include:

• Straining, or appearing uncomfortable, when urinating
• Needing to urinate more often, or passing only small amounts of urine each time
• Accidents inside the house from a previously toilet-trained dog
• Blood in the urine
• Strong or unusual-smelling urine
• Excessive licking around the genital area

These signs can also point to other health conditions, so it’s best to have your dog checked by a vet rather than trying to guess what’s going on.

How are UTIs in dogs diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis

Your vet will usually start with a physical exam and ask about your dog’s toileting habits. A urine test is used to look for signs of infection, such as white blood cells, bacteria, or blood. Your vet may also recommend a urine culture to identify the exact bacteria involved and the most suitable treatment.

If your dog has had repeat UTIs, or your vet suspects an underlying cause, they may recommend further tests, such as imaging, to check for things like bladder stones.

Treatment

Antibiotics are the main treatment for a UTI in dogs, and your vet will decide on the type and length of course based on your dog’s individual circumstances and urine culture results. It’s important to give antibiotics exactly as prescribed, including for the full course, even if your dog seems back to normal before it’s finished. Pain relief may also be prescribed to help keep your dog comfortable while the infection clears.

If an underlying condition, such as bladder stones or diabetes, is contributing to the infection, your vet will also talk to you about how to manage that alongside the UTI.

How can you help prevent a UTI in dogs?

Many UTIs in dogs happen despite an owner’s best efforts and aren’t always preventable, particularly in dogs with an underlying health condition.

Still, some general habits can support your dog’s overall bladder health:

• Giving your dog regular opportunities to toilet
• Always having fresh water available
• Following your vet’s advice on managing any condition that raises their UTI risk, such as bladder stones or diabetes

If your dog has recurring UTIs, speak to your vet. They can investigate what’s behind the recurring infections and recommend the best way to manage it.

When to see your vet urgently

Most UTIs are uncomfortable rather than an emergency, but it’s important to know when to act fast.

If your dog is straining to urinate but passing little or no urine, or seems distressed, lethargic, or is vomiting, this could indicate a blocked bladder, which is a medical emergency.

Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Pet insurance and its role in your dog’s care

The cost of managing UTIs in dogs can vary. Some dogs need just a single vet visit and a short course of medication, while dogs with recurring infections or an underlying condition like bladder stones may need ongoing consultations, tests, and treatment over time. That’s where the right pet insurance policy may be able to help, covering a portion of your eligible vet bills and easing some of the financial pressure.

Every pet insurance policy is different, though. For instance, with RSPCA Pet Insurance, your dog’s covered for eligible illnesses and injuries, subject to the terms and conditions of your policy. You can also customise your cover to suit your dog’s needs and your budget.

Plus, every policy contributes to the RSPCA’s vital work caring for animals. So, while you’re helping to protect your own pup, you’re also making a difference for animals in need across Australia.

To learn more about RSPCA dog insurance, click here. Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free quote online.

Disclaimer

As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure the cover suits your needs.

References 

[1] Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Urinary tract infections. Available from: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/urinary-tract-infections

[2] Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Struvite bladder stones in dogs. Available from: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/struvite-bladder-stones-dogs

[3] University of Melbourne. Urinary tract. Companion Animal Medical Guidelines. Available from: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/avpg/companion-animals/urinary-tract

[4] Merck Veterinary Manual. Infectious diseases of the urinary system in dogs. Available from: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/kidney-and-urinary-tract-disorders-of-dogs/infectious-diseases-of-the-urinary-system-in-dogs