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If you're here watching the video above or reading this article, you're definitely wondering how to treat dog UTI at home.
Well, you're in the right place!
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in dogs but usually do not cause concern.
UTIs are sneaky because they come out of nowhere. And they can happen to any perfectly healthy dog!
You may not even realize your dog has a UTI until he frequently goes to the bathroom or begins having accidents in the house.
If you want to see my colleague Connor's experience with his dog, Belle, having a UTI, read this article.
However, before we begin with the simple ways of treating your dog's UTI yourself, let me get this out of the way first.
Learning how to treat dog UTI problems at home should not be used in lieu of a trip to the vet.
Got it? Alright.
You need to know first that your dog's UTI won't cause them any long-term damage as long as they are treated in a timely manner.
If your dog is prone to frequent urinary tract issues, you may be able to help prevent them with a change in diet.
However, you'll want to touch base with your veterinarian before making any permanent changes to your pup's diet.
UTIs are more common in female dogs and dogs with diabetes, Cushing’s disease, or chronic kidney issues.
However, all dogs are susceptible to this bacterial infection.
In fact, it is one of the most common infections in canines!
About 14% of the dog population has been diagnosed with this.
That's why learning how to treat dog UTI problems at home is something that all pet owners should know.
Dog UTI: What are the Signs and Symptoms?
Scientifically speaking, there are no symptoms of UTIs among animals.
Unlike human patients, veterinary patients are often asymptomatic, and the UTI may be an incidental finding.
However, there are signs you can watch out for!
Signs and symptoms—what's the difference?
Glad you asked.
Symptoms are what the patient feels because of the infection, while signs are what we (dog guardians, vets, and experts) observe.
The observable signs you can watch out for are the following:
- excessive thirst
- uncontrollable bladder
- frequent urination
- bloody urine
- strong-smelling urine
- cloudy and/or dark urine
- excessive licking of genitals
- strained urination
If you notice these signs getting more severe, or if your dog starts vomiting, getting lethargic, or having a fever, you better seek veterinary care immediately.
It's important that you consult your veterinarian at the first sign of a UTI.
Because if it's not treated in a timely manner, the infection can spread to your dog's bladder or kidneys.
And you sure wouldn't want that, would you?
How To Treat Dog UTI At Home
In my extensive research among vet journals, forums, and online articles, I found that there are 4 remedies you could give your dog with UTI.
They're quick, easy, and cheap.
However, make sure to discuss with your vet the methods that I'm recommending today.
Now that we got that out of the way, here's the first best thing to give your pooch.
1. Cranberries
Cranberries can be an effective treatment to fight the urinary tract infection of your dog.
It has properties that make the bacteria stick to your dog's bladder, which helps in flushing them easier.
But what's the catch?
Two things:
TIP: Always feed cranberries in moderation to avoid adverse reactions like upset stomach and diarrhea.
And just because the berry has many benefits to fight UTIs doesn't mean storebought cranberry juice does the same.
In fact, we recommend NEVER giving your dog any store-bought cranberry juice or sauce.
This is because juices and sauces have A LOT of sugar and can also have other toxic ingredients that your dog's digestive system cannot process.
Second, cranberries might not be safe for every dog.
Some might have an allergic reaction to the cranberry, and some might get an upset stomach and diarrhea because of it.
So if you're planning to give this to your dog with UTI, consult with your vet first.
He will give you the best option and the proper quantities to give to your dog to prevent these risks.
2. Yogurt
You can also add a dollop of plain yogurt to your dog's meals.
Yogurt contains probiotics, which have been proven to be helpful in treating urinary tract infections.
In fact, all the other cultured dairy products fermented with good bacteria can help reduce the risk of infection by up to 80% in humans.
You can also add probiotics to your pet's diet with a supplement or treat that includes these helpful bacteria.
However…there's another catch.
As you may know, dairy products may not sit well in some dogs' stomachs.
Their stomachs are not designed to digest lactose, so make sure to check in with your vet before giving this to your dog.
If you want a much safer option with no catch, our number 3 option might be the best for you and your Fido.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Ah… the wonder liquid.
Apple cider vinegar does many wonders, not just for our health but for our fur babies too!
Adding apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your dog's water can help ward off urinary tract infections.
Having your dog take it for at least 10 days can help treat a mild UTI.
ACV can even be used to help repel those pesky fleas and ticks!
And what's more…ACV is completely safe for your pup.
Just don't put too much of it, as it's acidic and may not sit well if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
What I do to have my dogs take it easily is by adding it to their water bowl.
They're all small breeds and weigh less than 35 lbs., so I only add 1 teaspoon of ACV to about a gallon of water.
But if your dog is a large breed and is above 35 lbs., you may add 1 to 2 tablespoons to a gallon of water.
He might be suspicious of it in the beginning, as were my dogs, but trust me, and he'll drink it eventually.
4. Plenty of Water
And the best and most natural option of all…water!
Whether you add ACV or not, you must ensure your dog drinks plenty of water.
Extra hydration will help to flush the urinary tract system and clear up a UTI.
When Should I Take My Dog To The Vet For A UTI?
No matter which home remedy you choose, treating the infection at home DOES NOT REPLACE contacting your vet about your dog's urinary tract issues.
Just observe your dog closely and list down all the signs you see.
If his signs worsen within 48 hours, visit the vet right away.
Remember that urinary tract infections can spread quickly to other organs.
You don't want to take the chance of your dog suffering kidney or bladder problems just because you tried to get out of making a trip to the veterinarian.
Final Glance At How to Treat Your Dog's UTI At Home
To wrap up, the natural remedies you can get to treat dog UTI at home are:
- Cranberry Juice
- Yogurt
- Apple Cider Viner
- Water
These can generally help your dog's urinary tract issue. But these, in any way, do not replace a trip to the vet.
The best of luck to you and your Fido!
Related Articles
- How To Get A Urine Sample From A Dog
- Bladder Stones in Dogs: Home Remedies and Veterinary Treatments
- Recipe: Homemade Dog Treats for Urinary Health
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