If your dog has urinary incontinence your vet will need to perform some tests to try to find out what is causing it. X-rays and ultrasound are the most important tests in investigation of incontinent patients. Special x-rays (where contrast is put into the urinary system) may help your vet to identify anatomical abnormalities in the ureters and bladder and your dog will need a general anaesthetic for these. In many cases of urinary incontinence x-rays are normal (but it is still important that they are done to ensure nothing serious or treatable is missed). Ultrasonography can also be helpful in assessing for ectopic ureters, bladder cancers, anatomical defects and chronic thickening of the bladder wall associated with trauma or infection.

If your vet has ruled out medical and structural problems they may want to try some treatment to see if the incontinence can be controlled.