Ask a PetDoc: Housebroken lab wetting and messing the house

Written by Jonathan Baker

Question: Housebroken lab wetting and messing the house

Dr. Jim,

I have a two year old lab that has been house broken for over a year now, for the past couple of weeks she has been wetting in the house and just today she messed in the house. The door is open for her to go outdoors but for some reason lately she will not. Could she have health issues?

Thanks,
Brenda

Dr. Jim says:

Brenda,

Yes, she could and probably does have health issues. Dogs, and for that matter cats, that have bladder infections or bladder stones have urgency to void urine and therefore have “accidents.” Bladder problems are generally pretty easy to diagnose and to treat if done early in the course of the disease. If you wait too long or if there are bladder stones and they are of the oxalate variety then surgery will be required to correct the problem.

Another issue could be related to the dog having a problem with the pet door and as a result refuse to use the door. Your best bet here is to take the pet out on a regular basis.

Dr. James Sokolowski, DVM, PhD is a veterinarian with 40 years in the pet industry. He has appeared extensively on radio and TV including CNN, Fox, ABC and other national and local radio and TV programs. Dr. Sokolowski is a recipent of veterinary professional awards for his contributions to the veterinary profession. Read his full bio here.

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