So, your dog is having issues with house training or has started having accidents again. You can do everything right, including everything your trainer recommends and still have be having problems house training your puppy.  

  

As a trainer with 20+ years of experience, I get these calls fairly often.  To be sure, a lot of the time the behavior is driven by a factor that can be addressed through training. However, there may be another reason.  Having a professional trainer come to your home and evaluate your pet may help identify whether it is behavioral or possibly medical. 

  

Several medical conditions can interfere with a dog or puppy’s house training progress. If a previously house-trained dog starts having accidents or a puppy struggles despite consistent training, medical issues could be the cause. 

  

Medical Conditions That Can Affect House Training: 

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Frequent urination, straining, discomfort, or blood in the urine. 

2. Bladder or Kidney Stones – Similar to UTIs, but may also include pain, licking the genital area, or difficulty urinating. 

3. Diabetes – Increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite a good appetite, and lethargy. 

4. Cushing’s Disease – Excessive drinking and urination, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. 

5. Gastrointestinal Issues (Diarrhea, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Food Intolerances) – Frequent accidents, loose stool, vomiting, or gas. 

6. Incontinence (Hormonal or Neurological Causes) – Dribbling urine, wet spots where the dog was resting, or lack of control. 

7. Parasites (e.g., Giardia, Hookworms, or Roundworms) – Soft or watery stool, blood in stool, weight loss, or scooting. 

  

While training can solve most potty training issues, but there are times when you should see a veterinarian to be certain there isn’t something else happening. 

  

Visit a vet if your dog: 

• Suddenly starts having accidents after being reliably house-trained. 

• Shows signs of pain, discomfort, or urgency when urinating or defecating. 

• Has increased thirst and urination. 

• Experiences frequent diarrhea or soft stool for more than 24–48 hours. 

• Dribbles urine while sleeping or resting. 

• Has blood in urine or stool. 

• Shows changes in appetite, energy levels, or weight. 

  

If you suspect a medical issue, prompt veterinary attention can help prevent complications and get your dog back on track with house training.