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My dog squats to pee often, drinks more, and kicks. Is it a UTI?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 4 months old | 22 lbs

My dog has recently been squatting to pee a lot but it doesn't seem like anything comes out after the first time or two that she does this. At first I thought she was just marking since she did it mainly on walks but now she's doing it at home as well. She is also drinking more water than usual, but still eating normally. She has also been kicking herself a lot more. Does this sound like a UTI?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 8th, 2020

The straining to urinate along with the increased thirst may indeed indicate a developing UTI. You would need to have Zo physically examined by your veterinarian for confirmation. A sterile urine sample should be collected and submitted for urinalysis and urine culture/sensitivity. This may identify the organism responsible as well as the best antibiotic to use in treatment. Your vet may recommend abdominal x-rays or ultrasound to rule out kidney or bladder stones. Given current events, you may need to drop her off at the clinic then wait for the doctor to call you to discuss exam findings and treatment options.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 10th, 2017

    Unfortunately your whole question did not post. If you are asking if dogs can get them, the answer is yes. They usually show signs of increased thirst and frequent urination without producing much. You may or may not see blood in the urine. They can sometimes be lethargic and not eat. She would need to see a vet to determine if there is an infection or bladder stones and start Gemini on antibiotics to cure the infection. If there are stones she may require a diet change or surgery to remove them. I hope this answers your question, if not please repost and we will be happy to help!

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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