What To Do When Your Dog Marks Territory?

Territorial marking is a natural canine behavior that can sometimes become problematic for pet owners. Whether it’s your dog marking inside your house or on your walks, it can be frustrating and embarrassing. As always, the first step to solving an issue is understanding its causes, and on we go!

What Is Dog Territory Marking?

When your dog marks territory by urinating, he leaves his scent for other canines to find out that he was here. Territory marking is a communication method that dogs use to establish their presence in an area. Though this is a natural behavior, it can escalate into situations where your dog starts marking incessantly on walks or inside the home.

Causes For Dog Territory Marking

Hormones

Male dogs, especially non-neutered ones, are more likely to exhibit territorial marking behavior than female dogs because of high hormonal influence.

Both male and female dogs mark when they are sexually aroused and searching for a mate.

Anxiety and Stress

A dog feeling anxious, uncertain, or stressed may engage in territorial behavior as it gives him a sense of security and comfort.

Environmental Factors

Seeing new human or canine faces at home, shifting to a new place, or seeing a new dog outside can cause your dog to mark their territory and feel secure.

Medical Issues

Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and other urinary tract disorders can cause dogs to have accidents in the house and mark their territory more frequently.

How To Stop Dog Territory Marking?

Find The Cause

Marking behavior in dogs is often driven by instinct and hormones. Consult your vet to check if there is a medical reason behind this or not.

Spay or Neuter Your Dog

This reduces their hormone levels and can make them less likely to mark their territory.

Block Access To Marking Areas

Close doors or use baby gates to prevent your dog from entering areas where he is prone to mark. Once your dog has learned not to mark in those areas, you can gradually increase his access.

Immediate Clean Up

Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent so your dog doesn’t continue to mark in that area. If the scent remains, your dog may be more likely to mark in that spot again.

Positive Reinforcement

Give your dog plenty of opportunities to urinate on walks and reward him if he marks appropriately. Give him lots of treats if he goes outside to mark instead of urinating inside.

Toilet Training

Toilet-trained dogs are less likely to engage in inappropriate marking. You can toilet-train your dog yourself or by using the help of professionals.

Conclusion

Marking can be a frustrating issue for dog owners. However, it is essential to understand that it is a natural behavior for dogs. With patience, consistency, and proper training, you can teach your dog not to mark inside the house. Remember to never shout or use aggression to cure marking as it can result in further decline of your dog’s health. If you are struggling to address your dog’s marking behavior, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional.