Understanding the Causes of Blood in Dog Urine
Seeing blood in your dog's urine can be alarming. The medical term for this is hematuria, and it signals that something is wrong—sometimes minor, sometimes serious. Let's explore what might cause this symptom and how to respond.
Recognizing Hematuria in Dogs
Hematuria shows up as pink, red, brown, or even orange discoloration in your dog's urine. Sometimes the color looks normal but blood is still present (only detectable by tests). You might also notice:
- Frequent urination
- Straining or pain when urinating
- Changes in urine odor
- Lethargy or discomfort
- Swelling or redness around the genital area
- Abnormal discharge
- Behavioral changes
Some dogs show no other symptoms at all.
Main Causes of Blood in Dog Urine
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The most common cause. Bacteria inflame the urinary tract, leading to bleeding. Additional signs may include foul-smelling or cloudy urine.
- Bladder and Kidney Stones: Stones irritate tissue and cause bleeding. They can also block urination—especially dangerous for male dogs.
- Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis): These often affect older dogs and may come with lethargy and appetite loss.
- Prostate Problems: Male dogs can develop prostate infections, enlargement, or tumors that cause hematuria.
- Trauma: Accidents, falls, or being struck can injure the urinary tract and introduce blood into the urine.
- Toxins: Exposure to substances like anticoagulant rodent poisons interferes with clotting and may lead to bleeding.
- Clotting Disorders: Conditions such as hemophilia or thrombocytopenia allow unexplained bleeding throughout the body—including the urinary system.
- Cancer: Tumors (like transitional cell carcinoma) in the bladder, kidneys, or urethra are especially likely in older dogs. Other signs may include weight loss and appetite changes.
- Blood Vessel Inflammation: Swelling of blood vessels within the urinary tract can result in hematuria.
- Myoglobinuria/Hemoglobinuria: Muscle breakdown (from heatstroke or venomous bites) or red blood cell destruction can make urine reddish.
- Female Dogs' Heat Cycles: Small amounts of blood during heat are normal; persistent or unusual bleeding isn't and should be checked out.
Differentiating Emergencies from Minor Issues
If you notice any of these along with bloody urine, seek veterinary care immediately:
- Painful straining with little/no output
- Crying out during urination
- Burgundy/dark brown urine
- Lethargy, vomiting, collapse
- Pale gums or signs of severe illness
- Total inability to urinate
- Bleeding from other sites on the body
The presence of these symptoms suggests a medical emergency needing prompt attention.
The Diagnostic Process at the Vet's Office
Your vet will start with a physical exam and questions about your dog's recent behavior: changes in urination habits, appetite/thirst shifts, possible toxin exposure. Common diagnostic tools include:
- Urinalysis: Detects blood cells, bacteria, crystals.
- Cultures: Identifies bacterial infections for targeted antibiotics.
- Bood tests:: Checks organ function and clotting ability.: Imaging studies (X-rays/ultrasound) reveal stones/tumors/structural problems.",
- Surgical procedures/biopsy/endoscopy: If needed for further investigation.
