Urine Marking in Dogs
By Sherry Woodard

Among dogs, urine marking is territorial behavior. An intact (uncastrated) male dog will instinctively mark
his territory with his urine. A well-trained dog may not mark indoors in familiar surroundings, but as soon
as he is moved to a new place, the behavior will resurface. Some female dogs are highly territorial
and they will also urine-mark.

Dogs may feel threatened and consequently feel the need to mark their territory because:

• A new pet moves into your home.

• A new human baby comes home.

• A new adult starts spending time at your house.

The best way to prevent a male dog from urine marking is to have him neutered before
he develops territorial behavior. If the dog is an adult and the behavior is already well
established, then neutering may not help. If your dog does urine-mark in your home, it’s
important to neutralize the spot with an enzymatic cleaner to completely get rid of the
odor. Otherwise, the smell is an invitation to the dog to mark the same spot again. The
enzymes in the cleaner digest the odor-causing protein in organic materials.**

Spots where marking has happened can be covered with two-sided sticky tape or vinyl
carpet runners turned upside down. If the dog simply moves to marking another spot,
you may want to limit what areas the dog has access to while you attempt to change the
marking behavior through counterconditioning.

You can counter-condition by using one spot that your dog has marked – now clean – as
a site to place food treats. Many dogs will not mark a place where they eat. If your dog
has marked in several spots, you might want to cover the other spots with upside-down
carpet runner or furniture. Your dog will need supervision while he’s in the house and
regular trips outdoors to urinate. Remember to praise your dog every time she eliminates
in an appropriate place.

If your neutered dog is still marking after you have tried the above suggestions, seek
professional help from a behaviorist in your area.