Help! My Dog is Acting Strange! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
I have an XL American Bulldog called Gemma. She has been acting off for the past two days. Well, today I noticed that when she got up from a short nap, she had peed where she was lying. I thought maybe she was having a lot of anxiety because we just moved to a new home. So I brought her for a ride. When we got back, she did not want to get out of the car. Then, when I finally got her out of the car and into the house. She laid down in the dining room, and about 10 minutes later, she got up and she had peed again. She has never had an accident in the house… I’m not sure what to do. I don’t have
the funds to bring her to the vets. But I don’t want her to die on me.” – Amanda
Quick Info about Gemma
Dear Amanda,
I can imagine how worrying this must feel for you, especially since Gemma has never had accidents before. When a dog begins urinating while lying down or without realizing it, this can indicate that she is not fully controlling her bladder. There are several possible medical causes, including urinary tract infections, bladder stones, spinal or neurological conditions, and hormonal issues. In larger breeds like Bulldogs, certain spinal problems can also play a role.
Anxiety or stress from moving homes may cause house soiling, but the fact that Gemma is urinating while resting or lying down makes a medical cause much more likely.
Because Gemma’s signs appeared suddenly and she seems less willing to move around, this should be taken seriously. I understand financial constraints can be very real, but given her breed, size, and age, it would be safest to have her checked promptly. Many veterinary hospitals offer payment plans or can guide you to local assistance programs. You might also consider organizations that help pay vet bills. In the meantime, ensure she has constant access to fresh water, monitor her ability to walk and urinate on her own, and keep her comfortable on absorbent bedding. Since urinary issues can progress quickly, the sooner she is evaluated in person, the better the chance of keeping her safe and comfortable. I sincerely hope you find a way to get help for Gemma.
– Dr. Paola