The Bladder and Urethra
Think of the canine bladder as a pouch. It receives urine from the kidneys via the ureters and collects and holds it until it is so large that it stimulates urination. Urine stored in the bladder passes through the urethra before leaving the body.
Depending upon his size, a puppy's bladder is so small that it usually fills up every thirty to sixty minutes when he is active. As dogs age, they can hold their urine longer, although some seniors lose muscle tone and they must urinate more frequently.
All systems need to be in good working order in order for the urinary tract to function properly. Any imbalance in one system will affect the kidneys' ability to perform their task.
To maintain a healthy urinary tract and to prevent kidney damage, avoid dehydration by making sure your dog always has access to plenty of fresh water. The bowl should be emptied, cleaned, and refilled daily. In some households, you may need to check it a few times throughout the day. Dogs will drink heartily if the bowl is deep and the water is cold, which is why many of them will drink out of the toilet!
Your dog should have ready access to the outdoors where she can urinate when the urge arises. Middle-to large-sized dogs need to empty their bladders about once every three to four hours. Longer than that and the bladder has to stretch to hold the urine, which eventually can lead to loss of muscle tone and chronic problems.
Senior dogs should have their kidney function evaluated by having their blood and urine checked with a blood test every six to twelve months. Undetected urinary infections crop up more frequently with older dogs, and problems can be treated if they are caught in time.
A fresh, balanced diet supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids and plenty of regular exercise also helps maintain good health. If there is any physical or emotional stress in your dog's life, strengthen his immune system by supplementing his diet with vitamin B-complex and antioxidants.
