Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. The causes vary and include nerve damage, hormone deficiencies, structural deformities, infections, obstructions from tumors, bladder stones or an enlarged prostate gland, excessive drinking, and certain drugs.

One of the more common types of urinary incontinence occurs in older spayed female dogs and is caused by a deficiency of the hormone estrogen. Signs include urine leakage during sleep or while walking, jumping, etc. Generally these dogs seem not to relize they are urinating. Estrogen supplementation is usually successful in these females, but treatment is usually necessary for the rest ot the pet\'s life.