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Why is my senior dog suddenly peeing tiny spots all around the house?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 13 years and 2 months old | 15 lbs

Hello, my dog is a 13 y/o Jack Russell Terrier, and she has just recently started to urinate in many tiny spots all around the house. Why is this happening and how can I fix it?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on February 25th, 2018

I would strongly recommend having your veterinarian examine Spot and check a urine sample on her. We very commonly see urinary tract infections in older female dogs, so if that is what is going on, her symptoms will only get worse until she is treated. I am attaching a handout below with more information on urinary tract infections.
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2457
Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Spot feels better soon. Thanks for using PetCoach.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 21st, 2020

    You may want to discuss starting a medication to strengthen the bladder sphincter. Proin and Incurin are two such products. Also make sure she does not have a bladder infection or bladder stones (ask about a urine culture and x-ray) because these could also cause the symptoms.
    Otherwise your veterinarian is correct that general good hygiene is the best thing you can do aside from stopping the leakage. A diaper may help as well but be aware you will need to change it frequently or else she will also get a rash. medicated wipes and shampoo can also help when a rash starts to develop. I hope this helps.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 29th, 2017

    Any dog her age with an abnormal area of skin should be seen by your vet. Many skin issues present in a similar fashion so there is often times no telling what it is just by looking at it. It could be a direct skin issue or could be indirect like an underlying endocrine disease like a low thyroid. Your vet may need to some testing to get a diagnosis

    It does sound like urinary incontinence, I agree with you. It is best to put her on a medication for this issue - it is basically a weak sphincter between the urethra and the bladder and when that sphincter is weak there is a tendency for bacteria to get into the bladder and cause infections. Medications will help strengthen the sphincter. So, in reality, she should see the vet for both issues.

    Hope this helps.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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