This natural behavior of dogs causes many problems when it occurs indoors, but scolding is not the solution
One issue that troubles many dog “owners” is “marking” inside the home.
This behavior has different causes depending on the dog’s age, sex, environment, and psychological state.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Catarrhal fever: 46 sheep and goats were infected; ten died
“Marking” is one of the most common behaviors that trouble dog owners, says dog trainer Panos Kyriakopoulos, especially when it occurs indoors. Many people believe that the dog is intentionally relieving itself in specific spots. Marking, however, is primarily a form of communication and should not be confused with normal urination.
He explains that when a dog “marks,” it usually leaves a small amount of urine in a specific spot, often on surfaces such as doors, furniture, or walls. In this way, it leaves its scent.
It is a normal behavior related to the animal’s communication.
When does a dog “mark” its territory?
One of the most important factors, according to Mr. Kyriakopoulos, is sexual maturity.
Males, especially when they reach adolescence, may exhibit a stronger tendency to “mark.”
However, it is not exclusively male behavior. Females can also mark, especially during periods of hormonal changes.
“Marking” can also be related to changes in the environment. The arrival of a new dog or person in the home, a move, a change in furniture, a new space, or even unfamiliar smells can make a dog feel like it needs to redefine its territory.
In these cases, the trainer explains, “marking” does not necessarily indicate aggression or dominance.
He also notes that anxiety plays a particularly important role. A dog that feels insecure may use “marking” as a way to cope with a situation that is distressing to it.
For example, a dog in a new home or facing changes in its routine may start marking, even though it didn’t do so before.
The Difference Between Urination and “Marking”
It’s important to understand that urination and “marking” inside the home are two completely different behaviors.
Mr. Kyriakopoulos makes this clear by pointing out that there is, however, one very important difference. Not every instance of urination indoors is “marking.”
If a dog urinates a large amount, it may be due to inadequate potty training or not having been taken for a walk for a very long time.
It may also indicate a medical problem. Urinary tract infections, bladder problems, or other conditions can cause changes in the frequency and pattern of urination, the trainer emphasizes.
Therefore, when an adult dog suddenly starts urinating indoors, a veterinary checkup is essential.
What Can We Do to Stop “Marking” Inside the House?
According to Mr. Kyriakopoulos, the solution requires proper management, not punishment. Yelling and punishment, once the incident has already occurred, usually don’t help, since the dog cannot connect the punishment to the previous action.
Instead, the cause needs to be identified.
Equally important, the trainer advises, is to thoroughly clean the areas the dog has “marked,” ideally with a suitable cleaner. Otherwise, if the urine odor remains—even if humans can’t smell it—it serves as a stimulus for the dog, and the dog will repeat the behavior (marking).
A Concluding Note on “Marking”
In short, Mr. Kyriakopoulos concludes, “marking” is a form of communication for dogs. And it can have different causes depending on the dog’s age, gender, environment, and psychological state.
Properly assessing the behavior is the first step toward addressing it effectively. A well-organized combination of training, environmental management, and, where necessary, veterinary care can significantly reduce the problem. And it can help the dog regain proper habits inside the home.
Source: in.gr
