Pet Care
Your dog and.....Soiling in the home
THE PROBLEM
Urine marking is a territorial, sexual and social behaviour in dogs. Urine acts as a communication tool between dogs. From the smell, dogs can determine information such as species, gender and even if a bitch is in season Male dogs are prone to urine marking. Territorial marking is the main reason for this. Our dog’s wild ancestors, the wolf, lived within a well-defined territory. This territory provided all the essentials required to sustain the pack, including food and mating opportunities Today, urine marking, defines the boundary of a dogs territory.
URINE MARKING IN THE HOME
Urine marking in the home is usually a sign of anxiety and stress. It may be a reaction to one of the following situations. · The introduction of another dog into the home. · An unwelcome guest! · Introduction of a baby into the home. · Objects that may have the scent of other dogs (clothing etc.) · Your dog may enter an area of the home that he does not usually have access to. · Your dog is attempting to show his rank and status within the pack. Marking objects will make him think he owns them.
THE SOLUTION
It is important to establish why your pet is urine marking. Corrective programs range from dominance control and acclimation to desensitisation. Seek professional advice, so the correct program can be established for your pet. Below are a few tips that may help · Clean any area where your dog soils with ammonia free cleaner. Air fresheners and scents will not be effective. · Praise your dog when he urinates in the correct place. · Try to avoid having strange dogs in the house. · If you catch your dog urinating in an inappropriate place, startle him and shout “no”. Do not shout at him after the event has occurred.