Whether wild or domestic, animals urinate to mark territory and as a way to communicate with other animals through scent. This behavior is known as territory marking.
Your pet’s urine marking is a common and instinctive canine behavior. It usually begins when dogs reach sexual maturity, typically between 6 and 12 months of age. Both males and females mark with urine, but it is more common in unneutered males.
They do this as a means of communication.
A dog’s urinary system is not only responsible for eliminating waste and balancing electrolytes, but it also provides them with a way to leave important messages for other dogs.
While territory marking is usually acceptable during outdoor walks, it becomes problematic when the dog starts urinating indoors.
It’s important to figure out why your dog may be doing this and what to do about this unwanted behavior.
The pheromones in their urine also give passing dogs information about their reproductive status and rank. If your veterinarian has already ruled out a medical condition, the following reasons may explain your pet’s urine marking.
Your dog is not spayed or neutered
Without a doubt, the most frequent offenders are unneutered males. “Intact males feel more motivated to mark due to hormonal influence and sexual excitement,” explains Dr. Corinne Wigfall, a veterinarian with SpiritDog Training. Unspayed females may also do this, typically during periods of fertility.
Sign they are ready to mate
Unneutered males tend to urine mark when a female in heat is nearby. But they’re not the only ones: females also mark just before and during heat, especially when a potential mate is nearby.
A new visitor has come
You may notice an increase in urine marking after having new guests in your home. Unfamiliar visitors (both human and four-legged friends) can trigger a marking response in dogs, as they reassert their territory.
The same happens when you visit a new place with your dog. Some dogs urine mark when visiting a friend’s house, in an attempt to establish security in this unfamiliar environment.
A drastic change occurs in their environment
Just like unfamiliar visitors, introducing drastic changes in your dog’s world can increase urine marking. New things can disrupt our dogs’ sense of security; this includes major changes (a new baby, a cross-country move, a different routine), as well as more mundane changes (for example, a new piece of furniture).
Think about whether you’ve experienced any major changes in your life that could be causing your dog’s behavior.
There’s another dog outside
If your dog can see or hear another dog through the window, they might urine mark as a way to communicate territorial boundaries. And if a neighborhood dog urinates near your property, it could provoke a marking response from your pet.
You have multiple pets at home
Territory marking can occur in homes with multiple dogs when pets want to assert dominance. This is especially common among pets of the same sex.
They are anxious
“If your dog starts marking when they didn’t before, it can also be a sign of anxiety or stress,” Dr. Wigfall tells us. Canine stress can be attributed to a few culprits, including separation anxiety.
Owners of nervous dogs may also observe submissive urination. Females tend to show this behavior more often than males. A previous trauma may be the cause of this anxious and submissive behavior.
Often, urine marking can disguise urinary problems, and here’s how to tell the difference between urine marking and urinary issues in pets. Take note of these signs:
Urine marking
Generally, it occurs in small amounts and in specific places, such as corners, furniture, or vertical areas (walls, doors).
The urine usually has a strong, distinctive odor.
Animals often adopt a “spraying” posture when marking, rather than normal urination.
Urinary problems
Increased frequency of urination or straining to urinate.
Urinating in large amounts.
Having accidents in inappropriate places.
Presence of blood in the urine, or changes in its color and odor.
Discomfort, pain, or whining during urination.
Excessive licking of the genital area.
It’s essential to observe your pet’s behavior, and if you notice significant changes in their urination patterns or behavior related to urine, it’s advisable to take them to the vet for a thorough evaluation. The veterinarian will perform a physical exam and, if necessary, additional tests to determine if there is any underlying medical issue.
Remember that it’s crucial to maintain good hygiene and provide a clean environment for your pet. Also, make sure to offer them constant access to fresh water and provide a diet suitable for their urinary health.
If you have questions related to your pets’ well-being, please write to: DrBorrego@petsvet.com www.petsvet.com
Dr. Enrique Borrego is the medical director of Animal General Hospital, 501 SW Port Saint Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 Tel: 772-344-8835
Serving our Treasure Coast community since 1990
Image: Petsvet
