Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Common UTI signs in dogs include frequent urination in small amounts, straining, accidents in the house, blood in the urine, strong-smelling or cloudy urine, and licking the genital area. Bladder stones, tumors, and other conditions can cause the same signs, so a urine test is needed. Straining with little or no urine is an emergency.
Common signs
- Peeing small amounts often, or urgently
- Straining or discomfort
- Accidents in a house-trained dog
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Licking the genital area
Signs of a kidney infection
- Fever, lethargy, vomiting
- Back pain
- Increased thirst
Emergency signs
- Straining with little or no urine
- Vomiting and lethargy with urinary signs
Conditions that look like a UTI
- Bladder stones
- Bladder tumors, especially in older dogs
- Prostate disease in male dogs
- Incontinence
- Diabetes or Cushing’s disease (increased urination)
More: how vets treat UTIs.
Sources
- Weese JS, et al. ISCAID guidelines for the diagnosis and management of bacterial urinary tract infections in dogs and cats. Vet J. 2019
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Bacterial cystitis in small animals
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.