Does Your Chihuahua Pee So Much? How much is too frequent urination in our chihuahua? Most chihuahuas will urinate once every few hours to up to eight times a day. If your chihuahua is urinating more frequently than this, it may be a sign that something is wrong. This article will explore some possible causes of why your chihuahua pee so much and what you can do about it.
Understanding Your Chihuahua’s Routine
Is your chihuahua’s urination a serious concern? Begin by paying attention more intently. Note down the details to keep track of how many times your chihuahua pees in a day. It will provide you with a starting point for your chihuahua’s regular urination routine and needs.
Examine your chihuahua’s actions as well. Is she crying or whining at the door to go out? Is she marking tiny droplets, or is she flooding a whole area with puddles? You may also get insights by keeping track of your chihuahua’s fluid consumption. Is she consuming more fluids? Maybe because it’s very hot outside?
All these observations will explain why your chihuahua is frequently urinating. With this information, you can start to investigate the potential causes and find solutions.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
When you’re trying to determine why your chihuahua is frequently urinating, keep an eye out for other symptoms that may be present. These may give you valuable insights into the underlying cause of the problem.
▸A change in frequency
If your chihuahua suddenly starts urinating more frequently, it may be a sign that something is wrong. This is especially true if the increase is significant or if other changes in behavior or appetite accompany it.
▸A change in volume
If your chihuahua is urinating in larger amounts than usual, it may be a sign of diabetes.
▸A change in appearance
If your chihuahua’s urine looks cloudy, bloody, or has a strong odor, it may be an indication of a urinary tract infection.
▸Straining to urinate
If your chihuahua is straining to urinate or only produces a few drops, it may indicate a blockage in the urinary tract. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
▸Painful urination
If your chihuahua yelps or cries when she pees, it may be a sign that she is in pain. It could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or another medical condition.
▸Excessive licking
If your chihuahua is excessively licking her genital area, it may signify that she is experiencing discomfort when urinating. It could be caused by a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or another medical condition.
Watch out for these symptoms to better understand why your chihuahua is frequently urinating. It will help you and your veterinarian find the right diagnosis and treatment.
Why Does My Chihuahua Pee So Much: Potential Causes
■Age and Aging
How old is your chihuahua? Puppies and senior chihuahuas are more likely to urinate frequently. It is because they have not yet developed bladder control or may be experiencing age-related incontinence.
Every chihuahua is unique, although a healthy one urinates about every four to six hours on average. Puppies urinate twice as often in the first few months of their lives, every two hours until they are around 5 or 6 months old.
As they get older, they acquire bladder control, house-train and are forced to do so by habit. Polyuria can return naturally as part of the aging process or as a result of taking certain medications. Older chihuahuas may need to urinate more frequently due to age-related incontinence.
■Seasonal Weather Changes
Hot weather can make your chihuahua drink more water and therefore urinate more often. Chihuahua’s regulate their body temperature by increased panting, which utilizes more of their body’s water reserves since they don’t sweat as humans do.
They may also drink more water to stay hydrated in the heat. If your chihuahua is urinating more frequently in hot weather, make sure she has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
■Marking Their Territory
Chihuahuas are known for being territorial. If you have a new person in your home, or if there has been a change in your routine, your chihuahua may be urinating more frequently to mark their territory. How can we tell the difference between a chihuahua relieving himself and urinating to indicate his territory? Urination is usually a long and continuous stream.
When a chihuahua is urinating to mark his territory, he will usually squat and release small amounts of urine in several different areas. This is known as “spraying.” If a chihuahua is spraying, you may notice lifting legs or squatting in unusual places. Such as on the furniture or in the middle of the room.
■Spay Incontinence
Spay incontinence is a common problem in female chihuahuas that have been spayed. It occurs when the hormones that control urinary function are removed during spaying surgery.
It can cause the muscles that control urination to become weak, resulting in incontinence. Spay incontinence is not a serious medical condition and can be managed with medication.
Minor and Serious Health-Related Conditions
Several minor and serious health conditions can cause your chihuahua to urinate frequently. These include:
■Electrolyte Imbalance
An electrolyte imbalance can cause your chihuahua to urinate more frequently. It is because electrolytes help to regulate the body’s fluid balance. When there is an imbalance, the body may produce more urine to correct the problem.
Electrolyte imbalances are often caused by dehydration, kidney disease, or liver disease. If you think your chihuahua may have an electrolyte imbalance, take him to the vet for a checkup.
■Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that causes the body to produce too much urine. It is because the body is unable to properly process glucose, which leads to high levels of sugar in the blood. When there is too much sugar in the blood, the body tries to get rid of it by producing more urine. It can be curable but will require a change in diet and daily insulin injections.
■Urinary Tract Infection
One of the most frequent causes of why your chihuahua is urinating is a UTI or urinary tract infection. A UTI can cause your chihuahua to feel an urgency to urinate more frequently, even if there’s only a small amount of urine. Other symptoms include:
Blood in the urine
Discomfort or pain when urinating
Straining to urinate
A UTI is a serious infection that can be painful for your chihuahua. Some common reasons why they are suffering from UTIs are:
Not drinking enough water
A blockage in the urinary tract
Bacterial infection
If you think your chihuahua has a UTI, take her to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
■Ectopic Ureters
Ectopic ureters are a congenital condition that affects the urinary tract. In this condition, the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) are abnormally placed. It can cause urine to leak from the kidneys and lead to frequent urination. Ectopic ureters are often diagnosed in puppies and can be corrected with surgery.
■Decreased Urethral Closure Pressure
Decreased urethral closure pressure is a condition that causes urine to leak from the bladder. It can happen when the muscles that control urination are weak or damaged. Decreased urethral closure pressure is often seen in older dogs and may be caused by:
Spinal cord injury
Degenerative myelopathy
Neurological diseases
If your chihuahua has decreased urethral closure pressure, she will likely need to wear a diaper or urinal to catch the urine. Surgery is also an option, but it is not always successful.
■Bladder Infection
A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a common cause of frequent urination in dogs. Bladder infections are usually caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra. Symptoms of a bladder infection include:
Straining to urinate
Passing small amounts of urine
Blood in the urine
Discomfort or pain when urinating
If your chihuahua has a bladder infection, she will need to be treated with antibiotics. The vet may also recommend changing her diet and giving her more water to drink.
■Blockage of Urethra
A blockage of the urethra, also known as urethral obstruction, is a serious condition that can cause frequent urination. A blockage of the urethra prevents urine from flowing from the bladder to the outside of the body. It can be caused by several things, including:
Stones or crystals in the urine
Tumors
Infections
If a chihuahua has a blockage of the urethra, it will need to be treated by a vet. Treatment will likely involve surgery to remove the blockage.
■Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s disease is a condition that causes the body to produce too much cortisol. This can lead to several problems, including increased thirst and urination. Cushing’s disease is most often seen in older chihuahuas and can be treated with medication.
These mild and severe conditions are only a few causes of why your chihuahua is frequently urinating. If you are concerned about your chihuahua’s health, be sure to take her to the vet for an examination.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Chihuahua Frequent Urination
Your vet can perform a number of tests to determine why your chihuahua is frequently urinating. These tests may include:
- X-rays
- Blood and Urine Testing
- Urine cultures
- Ultrasound
- Helical computed tomography (CT scan)
- Cystoscopy (Urinary bladder endoscopy through the urethra)
Treatment for Chihuahua Frequent Urination
The treatment for frequent urination in chihuahuas will vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Pain medication
- Diet changes
- Increased water intake
- Surgery
If you are concerned about your chihuahua’s frequent urination, be sure to take her to the vet for an examination. In order for them to have the proper diagnosis and treatment, your chihuahua can live a happy and healthy life.
Home Aftercare for Chihuahua Pee So Much
After a vet has treated your chihuahua, there are a few things you can do at home to help her feel better. These home aftercare tips include:
●Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Give your chihuahua fresh water at all times. Place the water bowl in a location that is easily accessible to your chihuahua. If you are away from home, make sure someone is available to provide fresh water for your chihuahua.
●Monitor Food and Treats
Be mindful of the food and treats you give your chihuahua. Avoid giving her anything high in salt or sugar. Stick to a healthy diet appropriate for her age and activity level.
●Exercise
Make sure your chihuahua gets enough exercise. Exercise can help to release energy and reduce stress. Take your chihuahua for walks, fetch, or go dog park.
●Provide a Calm Environment
Try to create a calm environment for your chihuahua. Avoid loud noises and provide her with a safe place to relax. A calm environment will help to reduce stress and anxiety.
●Feed a High-Quality Diet
Give your chihuahua a high-quality diet that is rich in nutrients. A healthy diet will help to boost her immune system and keep her body healthy. Choose a food that is specifically designed for chihuahuas.
●Give Supplements
Talk to your vet about giving supplements to your chihuahua. Supplements can help to improve her overall health and well-being. Choose a supplement or the best vitamins for chihuahuas. You ask for recommendations from your trusted vet.
These home aftercare tips can help your chihuahua feel better and reduce her frequent urination. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your vet.
How to Stop Chihuahua From Urinating in Your House: Bonus Tips
A chihuahua can’t control her urge to urinate, especially if she has a full bladder. If you don’t want your chihuahua to urinate in your house. In the meantime, be patient with your chihuahua and attempt taking one or more little measures to assist them with this issue. Here are some bonus tips:
◻️Re-train Your Chihuahua
If your chihuahua is urinating in your house, you may need to re-train her. Start by taking her outside frequently and praising her when she goes to the bathroom. Reward her with a treat after she goes to the bathroom outside.
◻️Use an Indoor Potty
If you don’t want your chihuahua to urinate in your house, you can use an indoor potty. There are a variety of indoor potties available on the market. Choose one that is specifically designed for chihuahuas.
◻️Reward chihuahua When it Goes Outside to Pee
Whenever your chihuahua goes to the bathroom outside, be sure to praise her. Give her a treat or toy as a reward. It will help to reinforce the behavior you want her to display.
◻️Identify Any Triggers
Certain things may trigger your chihuahua to urinate in your house. Identify any potential triggers and remove them from the environment. Common triggers include stress, anxiety, and fear.
◻️Don’t Yell or Worse Hit
If your chihuahua urinates in your house, don’t yell at her or hit her. It will only make the problem worse. It will likely backfire, rather than learning that peeing in the home is a bad habit. Your chihuahua will discover that its owners are unpredictable and frightening. Instead, remain calm and take her outside immediately.
◻️Use a Crate
Consider using a crate if you need to leave your chihuahua home alone. It will provide her with a safe and secure place to stay. Make sure the crate is the appropriate size for your chihuahua.
◻️Clean up Immediately and Properly
If your chihuahua urinates in your house, clean up the mess immediately. Use a cleaner that is specifically designed to remove pet urine. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it normal for a chihuahua to pee so much?
Yes, it is quite normal for a chihuahua to urinate frequently. Their bladder is relatively small, and they have a high metabolism. Other factors that can affect how often your chihuahua needs to urinate include their diet and level of activity.
Some chihuahuas may urinate as often as every hour! If your chihuahua is urinating more than usual, it could be a sign of a medical condition such as diabetes or kidney disease. If you’re concerned about your pet’s health, please speak to your veterinarian.
Q: How often should I take my chihuahua out to pee?
Ideally, you should take your chihuahua out to urinate at least once every two hours. It will help to prevent accidents in the house. If you’re unable to take your chihuahua out that often, consider using an indoor potty.
Q: How can I tell if my chihuahua has a full bladder?
There are a few signs that you can look for to tell if your chihuahua has a full bladder. Generally, a chihuahua will start to squirm and pace around when it needs to pee. If your chihuahua is trying to tell you something, but you’re not sure what it is, here are a few tips:
– Check if your chihuahua’s stomach is rumbling or if it’s making a whining noise
– See if your chihuahua is constantly licking its lips
– Notice if your chihuahua is trying to bury its face in the ground or carpet
– Look for signs of restlessness such as pacing or circling
If you think your chihuahua may need to go to the bathroom, take her outside immediately.
Q: My chihuahua keeps peeing in the same spot. How do I stop this?
If your chihuahua is urinating in the same spot, it could be because she smells her own urine there. Chihuahuas have a very keen sense of smell, and they can be attracted to the scent of their urine. To stop this from happening, clean the area thoroughly with a pet-safe cleaner. You may also consider using an indoor potty to make it easier for your chihuahua to relieve herself.
Q: My chihuahua is peeing in her sleep. Is this normal?
Various things could be causing your chihuahua to pee in her sleep. It could be a sign of a medical condition, such as a UTI or kidney disease. Or it can be a behavioral issue, such as Separation Anxiety or excitement urination.
Another possibility is that your chihuahua is simply not getting enough potty breaks during the day. Chihuahua typically needs to urinate every few hours, so if she’s only going out once or twice a day, she may not be able to hold it in during the night.
Q: My chihuahua is peeing blood. What should I do?
If your chihuahua is urinating blood, this is a medical emergency, and you should immediately take her to the vet. Blood in the urine can be a sign of a serious condition, such as kidney disease or cancer. Do not wait to see if the problem goes away on its own. Seek professional medical help right away.
Q: My chihuahua is peeing in small amounts frequently. Is this normal?
Small amounts of frequent urination are most likely due to your chihuahua’s small bladder size. It is most common in young or tiny breeds of dogs. However, It could be a sign that they are not getting enough water or a health issue. If you’re concerned, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to give you the best advice based on your pet’s individual needs.
Q: Is spaying the cause of urinary incontinence in my chihuahua?
There is a link between spaying and increased incontinence in female chihuahuas, but the reason for this is not entirely clear. It’s possible that spaying causes changes in the muscles and tissues around the bladder and urethra, leading to leakage. However, it’s also possible that obesity or other health problems are responsible for increasing incontinence and that spaying only worsens these problems.
If your chihuahua is experiencing urinary incontinence, it’s important to get her checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Q: My chihuahua is leaking urine when she walks. Why is this happening?
There are a few possible reasons why your chihuahua might be leaking urine when she walks. One possibility is that she has a condition called “urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence” (USMI). It means that the muscle that controls urine flow is not working properly. USMI is most common in female chihuahuas, and it can be caused by a variety of things, including genetics, hormones, and injuries.
Another possibility is that your chihuahua has an infection or inflammation in her urinary tract. It could be caused by several things, including bacteria, viruses, stones, or tumors. If your chihuahua is leaking urine and showing other signs of illness, such as fever, lethargy, or appetite loss, she should see a veterinarian right away.
Q: Why does my chihuahua pee so much when she’s excited?
Many dogs will leak urine a little bit when they get excited, but this is usually not a cause for concern. It is more common in female chihuahuas, and it’s usually nothing to worry about unless your chihuahua also shows other signs of illness.
Q: What if my chihuahua is howling or straining to urinate after a surgical procedure?
If your chihuahua is howling or straining to urinate after surgery, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. There could be a number of reasons why this is happening, such as infection or urinary tract blockage.
Only a professional can properly diagnose and treat the problem. In the meantime, you can help your chihuahua by keeping them calm and comfortable. Try to minimize their activity level and ensure they have plenty of access to water.
If they’re in pain, you can give them a small amount of over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen (but check with your vet first). By staying calm and taking things slowly, you and your chihuahua will get through this difficult time together.
Q: Is it unusual for my chihuahua to leak urine following surgery?
There can be a number of reasons why a chihuahua may leak urine after surgery. One possibility is that the sphincter muscles that control urination were damaged or weakened during the surgery. This is more common in chihuahuas who have had long anesthesia or received general anesthesia.
Another possibility is that the chihuahua developed a postoperative infection, which can cause inflammation and irritation around the surgical site and lead to leakage of urine. Finally, some chihuahuas simply never regain complete bladder control after surgery, even if there are no apparent physical problems with their urinary tract.
If your chihuahua is leaking urine following surgery, it’s important to take him to the vet for an evaluation to identify and treat the underlying cause. In the meantime, you can help your chihuahua by keeping him calm and comfortable. Try to minimize his activity level and ensure he has plenty of access to water.
Final Thoughts
Peeing is a natural and necessary function for all dog breeds, and chihuahuas are no exception. While it’s normal for your chihuahua to pee frequently, there are a number of things that could potentially cause your chihuahua to urinate more frequently than usual.
We have outlined some of the more common causes of why your chihuahua pee so much. Hopefully, this article has helped you better understand why your chihuahua is urinating more frequently and what you can do to help them.
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
