Few things are as frustrating as discovering yet another spot in your home marked by your beloved furry friend’s urine. As a dog owner, it’s not just about the inconvenience of cleaning; it’s about understanding why they do it and how to address the behavior.
This issue hit close to home when one of my clients adopted a new dog. Despite being fully house-trained, Milo began marking spots around the house shortly after they brought him home from the shelter. It was baffling and frustrating, but even worse when guests came to their house and witnessed his marking behavior for themselves! So it was no surprise when they reached out to me for help!
Why Do Dogs Engage in Marking Behaviors?
According to Dr. Karen Sueda, a veterinary behaviorist, marking is a natural, instinctual canine behavior, especially for males. In fact, intact males with a high social order are most likely to over-mark. (Source: EmbracePetInsurance.com)
In the wild, urine is used to communicate:
- With other dogs.
- Territory boundaries.
- Social information includes gender, age, health, stress, diet, and even whether a female is receptive to mating. (Source: VCAHospitals.com)
However, in our homes, it can lead to frustration and confusion for both the dog and the owner. However, understanding the underlying reasons behind marking behavior is crucial in addressing it effectively.
Marking Behaviors: Possible Reasons
In Milo’s case, his marking seemed to be triggered by changes in his environment, such as the presence of other dogs in the neighborhood or rearranging the furniture. It was his way of asserting his presence and coping with the perceived threat to his territory.
But a dog may mark (and remark) his territory (aka your home) for reasons beyond changes in his space. (Source: AnimalBehaviorSociety.org)
For example, other reasons include:
- Separation anxiety, stress or frustration.
- A new routine or schedule.
- A new pet.
- Conflicts or stress with people or animals inside the home.
- A new baby, partner or family member.
- New objects with unfamiliar scents.
Modifying Marking Behaviors
Addressing marking behavior requires a multi-faceted approach.
First, rule out any medical issues possibly causing frequent urination, such as urinary tract infections or bladder stones. Once medical concerns have been ruled out, the next step involves the behavioral modification techniques below.
- Establish a consistent routine for all potty breaks.
- Consistency is key when tackling marking behavior including routines and rewards.
- Enthusiastically reward all appropriate elimination outside to reinforce desired behaviors.
- Use positive reinforcement techniques (high-value treats and praise), to motivate your dog to choose appropriate elimination sites
- Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation to help alleviate anxiety or frustration. Long walks, interactive toys and obedience training can enrich your dog’s life while reducing his urge to mark. (Ultimately, these things helped Milo overcome his constant need to mark and remark.)
Remember, addressing marking behavior takes time and patience. NEVER punish your dog for marking! Scolding or rubbing your dog’s nose in the urine is ineffective and can damage the bond between you and your dog leading to more anxiety and the urge to mark and remark.
Learn more about how to stop your dog from marking behavior here at the Dumb Friends League.
Conclusion
Understanding why dogs mark their territory is the first step in addressing this common behavior issue.
Implementing a combination of:
- Medical evaluation.
- Behavioral modification; and
- Environmental management techniques can help your furry friend feel more secure in their surroundings and prevent remarking your home.
As with modifying any undesirable K9 behavior, patience, understanding, and the importance of understanding and meeting our canine companions’ needs will ultimately help your dog stop marking for a pee-free home!
Give Your Dog the Attention and Exercise He Needs!
Behavioral issues can often be helped with extra attention and exercise.
Mental and physical stimulation helps your dog release any anxiety, stress or frustration in a healthy way!
My Pet-Sitting Services and Boarding in Las Vegas can help!
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