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My senior dog is peeing herself. Why does her urine smell fishy?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Female | spayed | 9 years and 11 months old | 15 lbs

My older dog is peeing herself and it smells fishy

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 8th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Polly!

Fishy smelling urine can indicate a urinary tract infection. If she is leaking urine she also have have urinary incontinence. There are 2 medication options for urinary incontinence in female dogs: Proin or DES. I recommend making an appointment with your Vet today or tomorrow and bring a urine sample with you. If Polly has a UTI the Vet will likely prescribe antibiotics.

I hope this helps and I wish Polly the very best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD
Veterinarian
Published on May 9th, 2017
Gemma's abnormal smelling urine and discharge could be a result of an infection (UTI or uterine infection), pH alteration of the urine from diet, among others. Since this is a notable change, I recommend taking her to the vet for an exam and urinalysis. The urine test will be able to determine if an infection is present, if changes in the pH are noted or if crystals are present. From there, her vet will able to determine if further diagnostics or medications are needed. I hope that the fishy smell resolves quickly!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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