A Physical Problem

The one thing to keep in mind if you run into this problem is that your dog can't control his incontinence problem.

Urine is stored in the bladder and normally when your dog has to relieve himself, the urine moves through the urethra and is then emptied from the body. When a dog is incontinent, urine trickles from the urethra while the dog is asleep or lying down. Infact most dogs are just as surprised as their owners when they realize what has happened.

What Causes Incontinence?

There are several reasons that can cause your dog to become incontinent. We recommend that you first see your veterinarian to determine what could be causing the problem. Some of the most common reasons are:

•  Aging
•  Diabetes (The urine is usually sticky)
•  Spay incontinence sometimes happens after a female has been spayed. Certain breeds such as Doberman's are prone to spay incontinence.
•  Any hormonal problem relating to a males testosterone or a females estrogen will affect his/her ability to hold urine.
•  Bladder infections which are often accompanied by blood in the urine as well as a kidney stone, can also cause incontinence.
•  If your dog has been on "Prednisone" for any reason, this drug will definitely make your dog urinate more. Many dogs that have been treated with "Prednisone" end up with a bladder infection.

Most Common And Successful Treatment Options

"Proin" (Phenylpropanolamine/Sudafed) not so long ago was a very effective way of treating dog urine incontinence. Many veterinarians prescribed "Phenylpropanolamine" regularly, but with the ever growing "meth" problem the FDA has made it more difficult to find. Some Compounding Pharmacies can still be found that can mix it if necessary, but there are other drugs available as well.

•  Tofranil RX
•  Diethylstilbestrol (DES) RX is an estrogen supplement which is often prescribed for spay incontinence.
•  Veterinarians occasionally prescribe Testosterone injections for neutered males who are incontinent due to hormones.

Testosterone injections may cause male dogs to become more aggressive and urine mark their territory.

•  For treating dog incontinence naturally, Corn Silk is an herb that works well. It might take several weeks to see results, but it seems to work well for many people. It's available in capsules or liquid form and can be placed directly on the dog's food. Since dosage is according to size and weight, be sure to check into the correct amount needed daily.
•  Raw meat included in a homemade diet is very successful for many dog owners.
•  Diapers for dogs are also available. You have a choice of disposable or cloth that can be laundered.
•  Piddle Pads are available to place underneath your dog

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