Urinary incontinence is related to abnormalities in the storage capacity of urine. Abnormal tension in the urethra and the appearance of extra channels between the bladder and urethra are also causes. In addition, obstruction of the urethra can cause overdistension of the bladder, resulting in decreased bladder muscle tone. Dog urinary incontinence is more likely to occur in female dogs, and older dogs and larger dogs are also more likely to suffer from it. So what are the causes of dog incontinence?

Belgian Shepherd Dog

Causes of urinary incontinence in dogs

​1. Nervous causes

1.) The nerves that control urination are damaged. Damaged nerves include peripheral nerves, spinal nerves, or brain nerves (brain or cerebellum).

2.) Abnormalities of the spine, such as abnormal intervertebral discs, compression and dislocation between vertebral bodies, etc., can cause nerve damage and lead to bladder distension and weakness.

2. The bladder itself has abnormal function in regulating urine storage

1.) The contraction and tension of the bladder itself are abnormally high, which can lead to excessive bladder contraction and frequent urination in small amounts.

2.) Urinary tract infection, common in chronic urinary tract infection.

3.) Congenital lack of bladder tone is also a cause of the disease.

3. Urethral abnormalities

If the coordination function between the smooth muscles and striated muscles of the urethra is poor, urinary incontinence may easily occur.

4. Congenital structural anomalies

The normal way of urinary excretion is through the control of the bladder and bladder neck sphincter muscles, and directly enters the urethra or vagina, which can also cause urinary incontinence.