Overview
At some point during your dog's life, your vet will likely ask for a urine sample. This could be for a wellness screening, health check, because your dog is experiencing kidney problems, they’re struggling to pass urine, or for something else. In some cases, your vet will take the sample, but generally, you’ll be asked to bring one.
That's why we've put together this guide on how to get a urine sample from a dog, how to store it, and what your vet can learn from it.
What to use to get a urine sample
Well-washed sealable pot (like a Tupperware container — avoid jam jars or other sugary food containers unless thoroughly cleaned)
Something clean to catch the sample (this is easiest with something wide and shallow, such as a plastic dish, foil tray, or even a soup ladle — these can work well as a dog urine sample catcher)
Gloves
Pipette (small tube to suck up the urine and put it in a different container) or syringe, if not available you can pour it carefully into the container
Long pole or stick to attach the catcher if your dog is nervous about you being close
The collection method depends on your dog’s sex. See below for how to get a urine sample from a male dog versus a female.
Read more: What is wellness screening, and how could it help my dog?
How to get a urine sample from a male dog
You'll usually need to get quite close to take a male dog's urine sample. After washing and drying your container, put your dog on a lead and head outside, ideally to a quiet area like your garden. Keeping him on the lead helps you stay in the right place when he starts to urinate.
As he cocks his leg, wait for the flow to begin, then, wearing gloves, slide your container or dog urine sample catcher into the stream. A few millilitres are often enough, but collect as much as possible.
Use a pipette or syringe to move the urine into a clean, sealable pot. Label it with your name, your dog's name, and the date and time of the sample collection.
How to get urine sample from female dog
Getting a urine sample from a female dog can be trickier because of how they squat to wee. A flat, shallow tray or foil container tends to work best, as it can be gently slid beneath them while they’re urinating. Keep her on a lead and approach calmly.
Avoid touching her with the tray, as this might contaminate the sample. If your dog is nervous, try placing the container down beforehand and guiding her towards it, or use a ladle attached to a stick to slide the catcher underneath. Praising her afterwards helps reinforce a calm experience.
Dog urine sample FAQs
How do I prepare my dog for a urine sample?
If you know you’ll need to collect a sample in advance, you can get your dog used to the process. Start by joining them in the garden when they go out for their morning wee. Praise them and, over a few days, see if they’re comfortable with you being nearby. This can help reduce stress when collection day comes.
When is the best time to collect a sample?
Early morning is ideal, especially their first urination of the day. This is usually more concentrated, which makes it easier for your vet to spot any issues. It also gives you more time to collect a mid-stream sample, ideally once the flow is going.
How fresh does a dog urine sample need to be?
The fresher, the better. Ideally, hand it to your vet as soon as possible. If that’s unrealistic, refrigerate it in a well-sealed, clearly labelled container. It’s best to deliver the sample within four hours and always on the same day it’s taken.
Do dog pee samples need to be refrigerated?
Yes, if you can’t get the sample to your vet within 30–60 minutes, store it in the fridge. Keep it in a secure, marked container and aim to drop it off that same day for the most reliable results.
Why do vets need a urine sample?
Urine tests (urinalysis) help vets check for issues that might not show symptoms, especially with the kidneys or urinary tract. Urinalysis is also a useful part of the diagnostic process if your dog is showing symptoms of urinary disease, such as weeing more often, straining to pass urine, drinking more or passing urine which contains blood. It allows your vet to act quickly and recommend the right care.
What can a vet tell from my dog's urine sample?
Your vet can tell any number of things from your dog's urine. This is called urinalysis and is performed to check for underlying or hidden health issues. Some of the most common problems a urinalysis may flag are:
Urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are fairly common in dogs, especially older females. These are a type of bacterial infection in dogs. If your dog has a UTI, their urine sample may show bacteria, blood and white blood cells if they have a UTI. It will be one of the first things the vet will look for, if only to rule it out.
Urinary crystals
Urinary crystals are painful for your pet. They can lead to UTIs, and in severe cases, the crystals clump together and cause stones, making it very difficult for your dog to go to the toilet. In some cases, they can be dissolved with a change in food or antibiotics. Otherwise, surgery will be needed to remove them.
Kidney disease
The kidneys help concentrate the urine. Diluted urine can signal your dog's kidneys aren't quite working as well as they should. This is why it is best to take your urine sample in the morning when it is meant to be most concentrated.
Diabetes
Diabetes in dogs can be diagnosed through the amount of glucose (sugar) in your dog's urine. The urine test may also show ketones, another sign your dog may be diabetic.
Other health issues
Depending on what the vet finds, a urinalysis can also help detect bladder stones, liver problems or even certain cancers. Regular urine samples can also be used as a stress-free way to monitor certain long-term medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease.
I can't get a urine sample from my dog, what now?
Speak to your vet if your dog just won’t go or you’re struggling to collect a sample. They may collect it in-clinic using one of two methods:
Cystocentesis
A needle is passed into the bladder to draw out urine. It sounds dramatic but is quick and reduces contamination. Sedation may be needed.
Catheterisation
A thin tube is passed up the urethra and into the bladder. It can be useful, particularly for male dogs who aren’t weeing properly. There is a small risk of introducing bacteria this way.
Need more advice?
If you're a Pet Health Club member, you're entitled to one free urine test each year as part of your plan. It's a simple way to check for early signs of health issues. Just ask your vet for a sample kit and they’ll guide you through what to do.
Use our find a vet page to locate your nearest Pet Health Club practice.
Medically reviewed by
Published on 09/10/2018 • Reviewed on 29/04/2025