Dog peeing blood
You let your dog out for a quick bathroom break, only to freeze when you see something alarming — a reddish tint in their urine. Panic sets in. Is it blood? Are they in pain? What should you do next?
Take a breath. While seeing blood in your dog’s urine (hematuria) is scary, it doesn’t always mean the worst. Sometimes, it’s a simple infection that clears up quickly with treatment. Other times, it signals something deeper that needs a vet’s attention.
This guide explains what may cause your dog to pee blood, what signs to watch for, and how to help them feel better — with expert-backed advice from trusted veterinary sources.
According to PetMD’s overview on hematuria in dogs, early diagnosis leads to faster recovery and prevents complications.
What Is Hematuria in Dogs?
Hematuria simply means blood in the urine. It can appear as:
- Pinkish or red urine
- Cloudy or brown-tinted urine
- Normal-colored urine that still contains red blood cells (visible only by test)
Sometimes, hematuria appears once and disappears. But recurrent or persistent blood always warrants a veterinary checkup.
GSVS’s article on blood in dog urine explains that both urinary-tract and systemic diseases can trigger it, from simple infections to kidney conditions.
Explore other canine health issues in our Pet Health category, including “Dog Throwing Up Yellow Liquid? How to Help Them Feel Better Fast.”
Common Causes of Blood in Dog Urine
Blood in urine is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Here are the most frequent culprits:
1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Just like humans, dogs can get painful UTIs that cause frequent urination, straining, and visible blood. Females are more prone because of shorter urethras.
The American Kennel Club ( AKC ) notes that UTIs are among the most common reasons for bloody urine and can usually be treated with antibiotics after a urine culture.
What to do: If your dog strains to pee or has accidents indoors, schedule a vet visit immediately.
2. Bladder Stones or Crystals
Mineral build-ups in the urinary tract can scratch the lining of the bladder, causing bleeding and pain. Dogs may lick their genital area excessively or squat without producing urine.
VCA’s guide to bladder stones in dogs explains that some stones require surgical removal or a specialized diet to prevent recurrence.
Learn about digestive wellness in our post “How to Boost Gut Health for Dogs After Antibiotics or Illness.”
3. Kidney Infections or Kidney Stones
Blood in the urine may stem from a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) or stones. Other symptoms include fever, lethargy, and vomiting.
WebMD warns that untreated kidney issues can lead to long-term damage or renal failure.
What to do: Prompt veterinary care and urinalysis are essential to rule out kidney disease.
4. Prostate Problems (Male Dogs)
In male dogs, enlarged or infected prostates can cause blood in urine and difficulty urinating.
PetMD explains that older, un-neutered males are at higher risk for prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
What to do: Neutering and medication can reduce symptoms and future risk.
5. Injury or Trauma
A fall, car accident, or rough play may damage the urinary tract or bladder, causing internal bleeding that shows up in urine.
Summit Veterinary Urgent Care notes that trauma-related bleeding usually requires imaging (X-rays or ultrasound) to assess damage.
6. Tumors or Cancer
Sadly, some cases of bloody urine stem from bladder or urinary tract tumors — especially in senior dogs.
Veterinary Partner reports that transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is one of the most common malignant bladder tumors in dogs.
What to do: Early testing and imaging are crucial. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care.
Additional Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog is peeing blood, take note of other changes:
- Straining or crying when urinating
- Frequent urination with small amounts
- Accidents indoors
- Fever or lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
According to The Spruce Pets, noting these symptoms helps your vet narrow down the cause and begin treatment faster.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Peeing Blood
Dog peeing blood
Dog peeing blood
1. Stay Calm and Observe
Keep a sample of the urine if possible — your vet can test it for infection or crystals.
Avoid guessing or self-medicating.
2. Call Your Veterinarian
Even if your dog acts normal, contact your vet as soon as you notice blood. Hematuria is always a sign that something needs attention.
3. Expect Diagnostic Tests
Your vet may recommend:
- Urinalysis (to check for infection or crystals)
- Blood tests (to evaluate kidney and liver function)
- Ultrasound/X-rays (for stones or masses)
- Urine culture (to identify bacteria types)
4. Follow the Treatment Plan
Treatment depends on the cause:
- UTI: Antibiotics and hydration.
- Stones: Special diets or surgery.
- Kidney infection: Antibiotics and IV fluids.
- Trauma: Rest and monitoring.
- Tumors: Medical intervention or surgery.
Keep your dog hydrated and encourage frequent bathroom breaks to flush bacteria.
Check out our post “How to Help a Senior Dog Sleep Better” for gentle home comfort tips during recovery.
How to Prevent Blood in Your Dog’s Urine
Dog peeing blood
Dog peeing blood
Prevention is always better than treatment.
- Provide plenty of fresh water to dilute urine and flush bacteria.
- Feed a balanced diet appropriate for your dog’s age and size.
- Encourage regular bathroom breaks to avoid bladder stress.
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight — obesity affects urinary function.
- Schedule annual vet visits for early detection of kidney or bladder changes.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition suggests feeding specialized urinary support diets for dogs prone to UTIs or stones.
Dog peeing blood
Final Thoughts: From Fear to Action — Your Dog Can Recover
Seeing blood in your dog’s urine is frightening, but with prompt care and love, most dogs recover fully.
What matters most is your quick response: noticing the signs, calling the vet, and following through.
Dogs can’t tell us what’s wrong — but they count on us to listen with our hearts and act with care.
So, if you notice that tell-tale tint again, don’t panic. Take a photo, call your vet, and know that you’re doing the right thing.
💛 Because at MyPetMyJoy.com, we believe every paw print comes with a promise — a promise to protect, love, and heal.