Short answer: see your vet. PDSA says urinary incontinence is not normal, even if your dog is older, and should always be checked.
What PDSA and VCA say
PDSA says many different conditions can cause urinary incontinence, and most of them are treatable. It reminds us that the dog is not doing it on purpose: they have lost control of their bladder. It says it is more common in middle-aged to older female dogs. VCA says it is usually seen as involuntary leaking of urine and that it may affect over 20 percent of spayed female dogs.
What to do
Call your vet and describe what you see, such as wet patches on bedding. Do not scold your dog. See adult dog accidents and peeing inside suddenly.
Meanwhile
Protect the bedding and keep your dog dry and comfortable. Ask your vet for tips.
Get the right help
Your vet will look for the cause and tell you what is possible.
This article is general education, not veterinary advice. If your dog seems unwell, is in pain, or something changed suddenly, call your vet. If it could be an emergency, do not wait.
Does one of these sound like yours?
Choose what fits. Nothing is saved or submitted.
Sources
Sources & care notes
Frequently asked questions
Is leaking normal in old age?
No. PDSA says urinary incontinence is not normal, even in an older dog, and should always be checked.
Is it treatable?
Many different conditions cause it, and most of them are treatable, so a vet visit is worth it.
What do I tell the vet?
What you see, such as wet patches on bedding, when it happens, and any other changes.
What do I do meanwhile?
Protect the bedding, keep your dog dry and comfortable, and never scold. They have lost control of their bladder, not their manners.
