Finding blood in your dog's urine can be alarming for any pet parent. This concerning symptom, while always requiring veterinary attention, ranges from minor infections to serious emergencies.
Understanding when bloody urine requires immediate care versus a scheduled vet visit can make all the difference in your dog's health outcome. Quick action and knowing what to watch for are your best tools when facing a dog peeing blood.
Top Questions About Blood in a Dog's Urine
When Does Blood in a Dog's Urine Require Emergency Care?
Blood in your dog's urine always warrants veterinary attention, but certain situations need quick care. If your dog is straining to urinate, unable to pass urine at all, or showing signs of severe pain, this is an emergency. These symptoms could indicate a urinary blockage, which can quickly become life-threatening. Call a veterinary hospital right away if you notice these concerning signs alongside bloody urine.
Is It Serious if My Dog Acts Normal But Still Has Blood in Its Urine?
Even if your dog seems to feel fine while passing bloody urine, this still indicates an underlying problem that needs attention. Dogs naturally hide pain and discomfort. The blood could signal anything from a mild urinary tract infection to more serious conditions like bladder stones or kidney disease. While not all cases require emergency care, you should still call your veterinarian within 24 hours.
What Should I Do First if My Dog Has Bloody Urine at Night?
If you notice your dog peeing blood at night, try to collect a small sample of the urine in a clean container. Note any other symptoms your dog is displaying, such as frequent urination attempts or discomfort. Call an emergency veterinary hospital to describe the situation. They can help determine if your dog needs to be seen right away or if it can wait until morning.
Why Dogs Pass Blood in Their Urine
When a dog is peeing blood, veterinarians call this condition hematuria. The blood can come from anywhere in the urinary tract, including the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Common causes include urinary tract infections, bladder or kidney stones, prostate problems in male dogs, and trauma to the urinary system. Less common but serious causes include poisoning, cancer, or clotting disorders.
Spotting Mild Cases
Mild cases of blood in urine may appear as slightly pink-tinged or light red urine without other concerning symptoms. Your dog might urinate slightly more frequently but still produces normal amounts each time. In these cases, your dog likely maintains normal energy levels, appetite, and behavior. While these situations may not require emergency care, you should still call your veterinarian within 24 hours.
Recognizing Serious Cases
Serious cases of a dog peeing blood often involve additional concerning symptoms. Your dog may strain repeatedly to urinate with little or no output, which can indicate a dangerous blockage. Dark red or brown urine, rather than pink-tinged, suggests more significant bleeding. Watch for signs of pain like whimpering, restlessness, or a hunched posture. Additional warning signs include low energy, vomiting, collapse, pale gums, or excessive thirst.
What To Do
Step 1: Stay Calm and Watch Your Dog's Behavior
Note whether your dog is straining to urinate, how frequently they're trying, and if they seem in pain. Watch for changes in their energy level, appetite, and thirst. Keep track of when you first noticed the bloody urine and any other symptoms.
Step 2: Collect a Fresh Urine Sample
If possible, collect a small amount of your dog's urine in a clean container while wearing gloves. Even a small amount can help with diagnosis. Store the sample in the refrigerator if you can't bring it to the veterinarian right away, but try to deliver it within 12 hours.
Step 3: Call a Veterinary Clinic
Call a veterinary hospital before bringing your dog in. Describe the symptoms in detail, including the color of the urine and your dog's behavior. Ask about wait times and any special arrival instructions.
Step 4: Transport Your Dog Safely
Place absorbent pads or towels in your car in case of accidents during transport. Keep your dog comfortable and minimize stress during the journey. If your dog is small, consider using a carrier lined with absorbent material.
Potential Life-Threatening Conditions
Urinary Blockage
A urinary blockage prevents your dog from emptying their bladder properly or at all. This emergency situation can happen when stones, crystals, or other material blocks the urethra. Male dogs are at higher risk due to their longer, narrower urethras. Signs include repeated straining with little to no urine output, obvious discomfort, and restlessness. Without treatment, toxins normally eliminated in urine build up in the bloodstream.
Exposure to Toxins
Certain toxins can cause bleeding throughout the body, including in the urinary tract. Rat poisons containing anticoagulants are particularly dangerous as they prevent blood from clotting normally. A dog who has consumed these toxins may have bloody urine along with bleeding from other areas like gums or nose. Quick veterinary intervention is essential.
Helping Your Pet Before the Vet Visit
While waiting to see a veterinarian, keep your dog calm and comfortable. Limit their movement to prevent additional stress on their urinary system. You may offer small sips of water if your dog is interested, but call your veterinary clinic immediately for guidance on whether to offer food. Never give human medications to your dog unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.
Preventing Future Episodes of Bloody Urine
Ensuring your dog drinks plenty of fresh water daily helps flush the urinary system and prevents concentration of minerals that can form stones. Feed a balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for your dog's age and health status. Regular veterinary check-ups can catch urinary issues before they become serious.
We're Here to Help
We understand how frightening it can be when your dog is peeing blood. Our hospitals provide compassionate care for both you and your pet during these stressful times.
If your dog shows mild symptoms like slightly pink-tinged urine but otherwise acts normal, call your primary care veterinarian for an appointment. For severe symptoms like straining without producing urine, dark red urine, or signs of pain, call an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. If you're not sure, call us — we can talk you through the situation.
Key Takeaways
- Blood in a dog's urine always requires veterinary attention, as it can indicate conditions ranging from simple infections to life-threatening blockages.
- Straining to urinate with little output, severe pain, or complete inability to urinate are emergency situations requiring immediate veterinary care.
- Collecting a urine sample and noting all symptoms will help veterinarians diagnose and treat your dog's condition more effectively.
The information contained in the article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of the advice of a veterinarian.
