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Why is my senior dog peeing and pooping on his bed? Could it be dementia?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 16 years and 3 months old

My 16 year old yorkie has got really dirty over the past 8/9 months he's weeing on his bedding but he doesn't mind sitting or laying in it, he does go out too but still pees on his bed daily, he's also pooing on his bed, again he,ll sit or lay in it he doesn't seem to mind, he some times scratches the poo into the bedding which is really frustrating, he's at the vets next Thursday but I'm hopeful some one could shed some light on this problem, could he have domentia??

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 13th, 2017

Hi there. So sorry to here that Willy is having this issue.

The short answer to your question is yes. He could have dementia. That being said, he could also have a problem with his liver, his kidneys or other organs that may be causing him to have accidents in the house. Another thing to keep in mind is that he may have arthritis that could be causing him to not want to walk to go outside to use the bathroom.

It is good that you are taking him for a vet exam. Keep an open mind and be prepared that the vet will likely do a thorough exam and then recommend at least some lab work to check Willy's kidney/liver function and they may even recommend x-rays and/or an abdominal ultrasound.

I sure hope they can figure out the root cause of Willy;s issue. Best wishes to you both.

Dr. Amber

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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