{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "headline": "Blood in the urine of a dog - what does it tell you?", "description": "Does the dog pee blood? Bloody urination is always a reason to go to the vet. Read on for the most common causes: urinary tract infection, urinary stones or prostate problems.", "datePublished": "Jan 27, 2026", }

Blood in the urine of a dog - what does it tell you?

📞 Study of urinary tract problems in Vantaa: 010 739 9130

Finding blood in a dog's urine is always a frightening experience for the owner. A red pond appears in the yard or a dog drips bloody droplets inside.

Hematuria (hematuria) is never normal. It is a symptom that always needs to be clarified by a veterinarian, even if the dog seems otherwise cheerful.

The most common causes

1. Urinary tract infection

Bacterial inflammation of the bladder is a common cause, especially in female dogs (shorter urethra). Symptoms include frequent urge to urinate, painful effort, and bloody urine.

2. Urinary stones or crystals

In the bladder, struvite or oxalate stones can form, which rub against the bladder wall, causing bleeding.

  • Danger: If the stone blocks the urethra (more common in males), the dog should not pee at all. This is a life-threatening emergency.

3. Prostate problems (Males)

In uncircumcised males, benign prostatic hyperplasia is extremely common. The enlarged prostate gland bleeds with urine or drips it from the penis even outside of urination.

What to do?

Contact Animal Hospital Sacrum.

  1. Take a sample: If possible, take a urine sample in a clean jar just before entering (preferably in the morning). However, do not delay the departure because of the sample if the dog is in pain.
  2. Investigation: We examine a urine sample in our laboratory. If necessary, we will do an ultrasound examination to see if there are stones or tumors in the bladder.

Note: If the dog tries to pee, but nothing comes, call the emergency room (010 739 9130) immediately.

With the right treatment (antibiotics, pain relief, diet or chemical castration), the ailment is often quickly restored.

Hyperthyroidism in cats — symptoms and treatment

Does your old cat lose weight even though it eats like a horse? It may be about hyperthyroidism. Learn more about this common disease in senior cats.

27.01.2026
Blog Category
Removal of tartar in dogs in Vantaa — when and how is it done?

Are you looking for dog tartar removal in Vantaa? At the veterinary hospital Sacrum, we perform a thorough dental treatment under safe anesthesia. Read more and make an appointment.

27.01.2026
Blog Category
Feline Ear Infection — Symptoms and Treatment

Cat scratches his ears? Unlike in dogs, ear infection in cats is rare and is often caused by ear mites or polyps. Read the symptoms and treatment instructions.

27.01.2026
Blog Category
Fractured tooth in a dog – when to see a vet?

Did your dog's tooth break or fracture? Read when a tooth fracture is painful and why a veterinary examination is necessary.

12.05.2026
Blog Category
Dog's movement slows down — normal or illness?

Old dog can't walk? Don't assume it's just old age. Often the cause is treatable pain, a heart defect or a hormone problem.

27.01.2026
Blog Category
A dog ate a foreign object -- when to go to the vet on duty?

Did the dog eat a sock, a toy or a rock? Read about when a dog needs to vomit at the vet and what are the symptoms of intestinal obstruction. Animal Hospital Sacrum helps 24/7.

27.01.2026
Blog Category