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Why is my dog with a liver shunt peeing so often? What can I do?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 11 days old | 2 lbs

My dog, who has a liver shunt, urinates to often. He urinates about 4 times per hour. What can we do about that? Will he have any serious consequences caused by this problem?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 10, 2017

Hello and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would be concerned about a bladder stone or crystals in the urine causing frequent urination. If Pako has a liver shunt he is prone to forming a certain type of bladder stones. Frequent urination can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Finally, if Pako is drinking more water there could be an internal reason (associated with his shunt or another medical issue) that is causing this. The first step would be to take his urine sample to your veterinarian to have a urinalysis done. X-rays or an ultrasound may be necessary to diagnose a bladder stone if one is present. It would be a good idea to have Pako examined by your veterinarian as well to ensure he is otherwise in good help. Best of luck to you and Pako!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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