Why is my dog peeing so much? Frequent urination in dogs, explained

Updated 11/12/2023

Frequent urination in dogs is - as the name might suggest - a need for pups to pee more than usual. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for pet parents to pinpoint the cause of excessive peeing, which can range from something as innocent as too much H2O - to something a little more sinister, like an underlying health condition. 

If you’ve noticed your dog peeing a lot, it can understandably be a cause for concern. Here, we’ll run through some of the most common causes of frequent canine urination - and when exactly you should consider seeing a vet.

How much should a dog urinate? 

The golden question - what’s ‘normal’ when it comes to canine urination? 

On average, dogs will need to pee around 3-5 times a day. Usually, this will be spaced out with some dogs going in 6-8 hour intervals (although, some dogs can go up to 10 hours overnight without peeing). The frequency your pooch will need to tinkle can depend on their diet, water intake, activity levels, overall pet health and more.

As we know, dogs love their routine and will generally go to the toilet (or rather, their favourite spot in the garden) around the same time each day. Good news for pet parents, as this makes it much easier to monitor and pinpoint any potential changes in your pooch’s peeing habits. 

Causes of excessive urination

Let’s explore some of the most common causes of frequent urination: 

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common - but luckily, most treatable - causes of excessive urination in dogs. This is usually caused by bacteria in the urethra. Other symptoms to look out for when it comes to a dog UTI include cloudy or bloody urine, pain whilst peeing, straining and only passing small amounts of urine at a time, excessive licking around the genital area, and if your dog has a temperature.

Urethral sphincter mechanism insufficiency (USMI)

If you’ve been wondering 'why is my female dog peeing a lot?, it could be down to a USMI - another common cause of excessive urination, particularly in neutered adult female dogs. This is where the urethra becomes too weak to hold in urine, leading to urinary incontinence.

Kidney failure/disease or liver disease

A more serious cause of excessive urination in dogs could be kidney or liver disease. Amongst other nasty symptoms (think vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, low appetite and lethargy), frequent urination and increased thirst can be one of the first tell-tale signs of a serious underlying issue.  If your vet is suspicious of either of these conditions, then they may suggest blood and urine samples to investigate further. 

Bladder crystals or stones

Small crystals in your pet’s urine can cause irritation resulting in excessive urination, and cystitis-like symptoms. These microscopic can potentially clump together and form larger stones (uroliths). Crystals and stones can be caused by an underlying urinary tract infection, dietary issues, or a genetic predisposition. 

Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)

This condition results in the body producing too much cortisol (a naturally occurring steroid hormone). This can cause an increased thirst but increased urination too. This may result in urinary accidents, as well as other symptoms such as fur loss and an enlarged abdomen. 

Diabetes

Diabetes is another potential underlying cause of frequent urination you'll want to rule out. The high blood sugar in diabetic dogs can cause an excessive thirst , which in turn means your pooch might need to pee more than usual. 

Psst! If your furry friend is diagnosed with diabetes, that doesn't mean they have to miss out on all the fun! They'll love our delicious diabetic dog treats, from homemade goodies to shop-bought delights, these will have you and your pooch pal drooling!

Puppies

Not a cause, exactly, but age can certainly affect a dog's need to pee. Puppies will need to pee much more than their adult canine counterparts - on average around every 2 hours. And it goes without saying, they can have quite a few more accidents, too - so, knowing how to get rid of dog pee smell will definitely come in useful when it comes to getting them house trained. 

Older dogs

Likewise, as our four-legged friends grow old gracefully, their bladders may become weaker, which can lead to increased urination and incontinence. 

Medication

Is your dog peeing more than usual down to their new medication? Quite possibly. Some drugs, including antibiotics, diuretics or steroids, can cause increased urination, so it’s worth checking the list of side effects or asking your vet if this is to be expected. 

Too much water

What goes in, must come out - and sometimes frequent urination is as simple as your dog drinking more water. This is fine if they are drinking more because it is a particularly hot day or they have been busy running around, however, bear in mind that increased thirst can also be a sign of dehydration or another underlying medical issue.

When you should see the vet

As you'll see, there can be innocent causes for frequent urination in dogs, but it can also signal a nasty underlying disease or infection. And if you ask us? It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Watching your dog pee might not be your most preferred pastime, but it’s an important task all pet parents should get into the habit of. If you’ve noticed your dog’s peeing habits have changed, their urine has changed (in colour, smell, frequency, or if there is blood present), or if they appear to be straining or in discomfort while peeing, make no doubt about it - it’s time to take a trip to the vet as soon as possible for a check-up and urine sample.

Meet our veterinary expert, Rebecca

This article has been checked by veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed MRCVS. Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!

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