You come home and find a small wet spot on the curtain, the sofa leg or the corner of a wall. If your dog is house trained, this is probably marking, not a regular accident. Marking is common and very fixable once you understand why it happens.
Marking or accident?
- Marking: small amounts of urine, often on vertical surfaces or in the same spots, sometimes after sniffing.
- Accident: a full puddle, usually on the floor, when your dog could not hold it. If that is what you see, read why your dog may be peeing everywhere.
Why dogs mark indoors
- Territory and the smell of other dogs, inside or outside the home
- Anxiety, excitement or changes in routine
- A new pet, visitor, move or piece of furniture
- Not being neutered or spayed, which can play a role for some dogs
7 steps that help
- Start with the vet. Rule out a medical cause, and ask whether neutering or spaying could help your dog.
- Clean with an enzymatic cleaner. Ordinary cleaning products can leave a scent your dog still detects.
- Supervise closely. Keep your dog in sight, or use a leash indoors, so you can interrupt before they lift a leg.
- Interrupt calmly. A quick, neutral sound, then lead your dog outside. Do not yell or punish.
- Reward outside. Treat and praise right after your dog pees in the right place.
- Remove triggers. Block the view through windows, and keep new items or visitors' bags out of reach for a while.
- Add a physical barrier. While training takes hold, a washable dog diaper can keep sofas, curtains and floors protected.
Using a washable diaper while you train
The Cocoon Pets Washable Dog Diaper is designed for moments such as marking, heat cycles, puppy training and travel. Pick your size by measuring your dog's waist with our size guide. Remember that a diaper does not teach your dog anything by itself, so keep up the training and the outdoor breaks.
Keep reading
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your veterinarian or a qualified trainer.