How To Stop Dog Marking: Tips And Tricks

Marking is a natural behavior for dogs. It’s their way of leaving their scent and communicating with other dogs. However, it can be frustrating for pet parents when their dog starts marking inside the house. Not only is it unsanitary, but it can also damage furniture and carpets. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to stop dog marking and provide you with some helpful tips and tricks.

Understanding Dog Marking

Before we delve into the tips, it’s important to understand why dogs mark. As mentioned earlier, marking is a way for dogs to communicate with other dogs. It’s also a way for them to establish their territory. Dogs have scent glands in their paws and around their anus, which they use to leave their scent. Male dogs are more likely to mark than female dogs, and they typically mark objects that are vertical, such as walls and furniture.

It’s important to note that marking is different from urinating. When a dog marks, they only release a small amount of urine. They also typically lift their leg or stand on their hind legs when they mark, whereas they squat when they urinate.

Tip #1: Get Your Dog Spayed or Neutered

One of the most effective ways to stop dog marking is to get your dog spayed or neutered. This is because male dogs are more likely to mark than female dogs, and getting them fixed can reduce their desire to mark. It’s also important to note that spaying or neutering your dog has other health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.

Tip #2: Clean Up Any Messes Immediately

If your dog has already marked inside the house, it’s important to clean up the mess as soon as possible. This is because dogs are more likely to mark in areas where they’ve already marked before. Use an enzymatic cleaner, such as Nature’s Miracle or Simple Solution, to clean up any urine stains. These cleaners break down the proteins in the urine and eliminate the odor, which can help prevent your dog from marking in the same spot again.

Tip #3: Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a great way to train your dog not to mark inside the house. When you catch your dog in the act of marking, interrupt them with a loud noise, such as clapping or saying “no”. Then, take them outside to finish their business. When they do their business outside, praise them and give them a treat. This will help them associate going outside with positive reinforcement.

Tip #4: Provide Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Dogs that are bored or anxious are more likely to mark inside the house. Make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. This can include going for walks, playing fetch, and providing puzzle toys. A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to mark inside the house.

Tip #5: Use a Belly Band or Diapers

If your dog is still marking inside the house despite your best efforts, you can consider using a belly band or diapers. Belly bands are fabric wraps that go around your dog’s belly and prevent them from marking. Diapers are similar, but they cover your dog’s entire bottom. These options should only be used as a last resort and should not replace training and positive reinforcement.

Tip #6: Consult Your Veterinarian

If your dog’s marking behavior is sudden or excessive, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. Marking can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as a urinary tract infection or bladder stones. Your veterinarian can help determine if there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

Marking is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can be frustrating when they start doing it inside the house. The tips and tricks we’ve discussed in this blog post can help you stop dog marking and keep your home clean and sanitary. Remember to be patient and consistent with your training, and always use positive reinforcement.