Why does my dog urinate on objects?
Dogs can communicate using pheromones — chemical messengers that are recognized by members of the same species. Dogs learn about each other through pheromones, especially those in the urine, which is why dogs spend so much time investigating the urine of other dogs (checking their “pee-mail”).
After performing a thorough sniff investigation, whether of urine or any interesting scent, dogs often deposit a urine mark of their own. Urine marking is most common in intact males, but intact females also engage in urine marking, as well as many neutered males and spayed females.
Most urine marks contain only a small volume of urine. In contrast, a larger amount of urine is usually deposited when dogs urinate to relieve their full bladder. Marking with urine is most common, but some dogs mark by defecating a small amount of feces.
Scent marking with urine is considered normal dog behavior. Dogs mark to label their territory. Understandably, marking is not always socially acceptable, depending on location and context. Dogs may attempt to communicate through urine marks even when they are indoors.
How can I control urine marking in my home?
If your dog is urinating indoors, first have your veterinarian examine him for any possible illness. Your veterinarian may want to do bloodwork and evaluate a urine sample. A physical check-up is particularly important if your dog was well house-trained and suddenly begins urinating indoors. If your dog is straining to urinate, it could be an emergency, so do not delay the examination. If there is no medical explanation, consider what might have triggered the behavior.
- Marking can be triggered by hormonal changes as dogs reach puberty and begin to communicate their availability for breeding.
- Marking can be triggered by anxiety or frustration related to social or environmental changes, such as a new dog in the neighborhood, a new person in the home, a change in the relationship with another dog or person within the home, a new work schedule, or a remodeling project.
- Sometimes, indoor vertical objects such as plants, corners of furniture, or other upright objects seem to automatically trigger marking, even when the dog is relaxed and the objects do not have emotional significance.
- Some dogs, particularly males, repeatedly mark vertical surfaces when outside, which is a reminder that marking usually represents normal communication.
Once you have identified the motivation for marking, a treatment plan can be designed. In all cases, some management and increased supervision will be needed. Management may include using a belly band (a diaper-like wrap for male dogs) to protect floors, furniture and other belongings that could be urinated on, and confining your dog to an area where you can tolerate marking in the short term.
Note: Belly bands must be used carefully. They are just a tool to use until training has been completed. They merely prevent damage to property. Belly bands do not teach dogs to refrain from marking. For safety reasons, they should only be used for short periods of time. Dogs are able to urinate while wearing the band and the soiled band must be removed, just as you would remove a soiled diaper, or serious skin infection can occur.
"Do not scold or startle your dog — punishment can trigger fear,
which could make marking worse in the long run."
If there are specific targets for marking, you may block your dog’s unsupervised access to those areas until training is complete. For example, if your dog marks near the street-facing windows, you may use a gate to keep him from entering the room and/or close the curtains. Freestanding gates can also be used to prevent access to specific objects or items of furniture.
While supervising, if you notice your dog begin to investigate a high-risk object or area, simply distract him. Do not scold or startle your dog — punishment can trigger fear, which could make marking worse in the long run. You can call your dog for some play or give him a toy or invite him to lie down on a settle mat. When introducing new household items, particularly tall, tree-like items, closely watch your dog for signs of excessive interest and redirect before he urinates.
Do not take your dog outside after you interrupt a marking attempt unless you are concerned that your dog actually needs to eliminate. The long-term goal should be to reduce your dog’s urge to mark by addressing the underlying motivation rather than by providing another opportunity to mark in a different location.
If your dog’s marking is triggered by his relationship with a person or other pet, that relationship needs to be addressed and, since relationships are complicated, it is advisable to consult with a behavior specialist. Dogs that urine mark because they are left alone or in response to external triggers or noises may also benefit from professional counseling.
If the marking is related to anxiety or frustration about a change in routine, ensure that your dog has a regular and stimulating routine of exercise and play. When you are not playing, training, exercising, or supervising, your dog should learn to settle (preferably in his bed or confinement area) to take a nap or play with his own toys.
How do I control outdoor marking?
Since marking is a normal behavior for dogs, it is not practical to expect to eliminate all marking behavior when your dog is outdoors. Dogs are particularly likely to leave their urine messages in places where other dogs have urinated, and when they enter a new environment.
When you and your dog are outside in an area where marking would not be acceptable, such as on a patio or in your neighbor’s yard, supervise closely and be prepared to call your dog to you quickly if you notice signs such as prolonged sniffing in a specific location. It may help to hold your dog on a leash except when you are interacting directly with him.
You can learn to predict and pre-empt urine marking in locations such as your neighbor’s favorite flower bed. When you reach these areas, encourage your dog to move along with you by using a happy voice and even a food lure until you reach a safe location.
How do I reduce marking when at other people’s homes or other indoor locations?
Dogs that mark when visiting (e.g., homes of friends/relatives, dog shows, veterinary clinics, obedience classes, stores) should be kept on a leash, at least until they are comfortable, settled, and have had the opportunity for supervised exploration of the new environment. Direct supervision and prevention are the keys.
You can use a belly band to protect the environment, but remember that even with a belly band, it is important to supervise and distract your dog at the first sign of interest in a potential trigger for marking. Excessive sniffing in a specific location, for example, may be a sign that your dog is about to mark something. Redirect using a happy voice and, if appropriate, treat your dog for quickly returning to you.
Will neutering help with marking?
In some dogs, neutering may reduce the tendency to mark, but it is not a guaranteed cure. Marking occurs whether dogs are sexually intact, neutered, or spayed. Studies report that neutering can reduce marking behavior by up to 80% in male dogs. It is important to remember that neutering can cause both physical and behavioral changes. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether surgery is appropriate for your dog.
Could drugs be helpful?
Medication may be helpful in some dogs, depending on their motivation to mark. Dogs that are diagnosed with anxiety, frustration, or hyperarousal may benefit from medications. Synthetic pheromones, such as Thunderease®, can encourage dogs to relax in specific locations, potentially reducing territorial behavior and the drive to mark. Medications should always be used in conjunction with a comprehensive behavioral treatment plan. Your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can advise you on whether medication would be appropriate.
