Is my dog urinating too much?
Frequent urination is not always a cause to worry, but sometimes it can be a sign that something is wrong, especially if it comes on suddenly or is paired with other symptoms. If your dog is weeing very frequently and it’s paired with the following symptoms, take them to the vet as soon as possible:
That’s our guide to how often dogs need to pee! Remember that each dog is different and all will have different urination requirements. It’s a good idea to let your dog out regularly, and keep an eye on the signs that your dog needs to pee, such as going to the door, etc. If you need further support, or have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact your vet for advice.
Looking to get the answer to more common dog behaviour? Check out our guide on why dogs pant, next.
Senior dogs, like puppies, lack the ability to hold their bladders as long. Many frustrated pet parents observe their pets ability to remember to go outside deteriorating as they get older, but its typically not disobedience on the part of the dog. Senior dogs typically need a bathroom break every 4-6 hours. That may, however, depend on the specific breed of dog, their weight, and their other health problems, among other issues. Some older dogs may need to pee more often.
Its important to carefully watch your pets habits. If he or she is squirming uncomfortably after 6 hours at home or in the crate, you should make a habit of letting your pet out every six hours. Know that your dog can make it 10-12 hours without needing to go if you have to be away from home? You can stretch your walk times out a little bit longer, but keep in mind that holding for too long or too frequently can lead to an increased risk of bladder, kidney, and urinary tract infections.
If you arent able to be home to take your dog out, hiring a pet sitter is one option for keeping them healthy and comfortable. It can also be helpful to paper train your dog or provide them with pee pads so that they have a “safe” place to urinate even if you arent available to take them out or they, like their human companions, just cant make it.
When you gotta go, you gotta go! Just like you cant cross your legs and hold it forever, your furry friend will need frequent visits outdoors to “do their business” and prevent bladder issues or messes in the house. If youre a first-time pet parent, however, you may find yourself wondering just how often your pet is going to need to visit the great outdoors. Is your new puppy sniffing at the door because of a need to pee or simply a desire to play? Is that older dog you adopted from the shelter ready to go out again, or are they just desperate for your attention? Understanding exactly how often your dog should go out to pee can help make you a better pet parent as you take your pets comfort into consideration.
On average, dogs need to go outside at least 3 to 5 times per day to have the opportunity to relieve themselves. Veterinarians recommend that adult dogs go no more than 6-8 hours between trips outdoors.
Puppies pee more often
Age does affect how often a dog needs to urinate. Puppies will need to go out more often — every two hours, according to Solomon — especially during house training. Puppy owner Meghan Smith of Mason, Ohio, says she takes her 3-month-old dog out “every hour, on top of every time he wakes up from naps, after vigorous play and within five minutes of eating or drinking anything.” Her previous dog Loki, she says, took two weeks to train, but this puppy is taking longer.
Sarah Carothers of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, says she’s the one being trained! Her 5-year-old dog Maxx goes to work with her, where she has to keep a close eye on him to avoid accidents in the office. She takes him out “at specific times — 8:30, 11, for lunch from 1 to 2, 4 and then home.”
How Long Can your Dog SAFELY Hold Their Pee – Veterinarian Explains
Krystn is a passionate pet nutrition enthusiast. She has worked in the pet industry for over a decade and loves to share her passion for animal welfare with others. She loves all animals but is currently channeling some crazy cat lady vibes with her four lovable, but rebellious cats.