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If you’re finding puddles or small spots of urine around the house, it could be due to your dog’s habit of scent marking. Scent marking is different from regular toileting – it’s a way for dogs to communicate and mark their territory. However, it can become a frustrating habit when it’s happening inside your home. Here are some effective tips to help curb your dog’s scent marking indoors.

Understand Why Dogs Scent Mark

Scent marking is a natural behaviour for dogs, especially if they’re feeling territorial or insecure. It’s most common in unneutered male dogs, but females and neutered dogs can mark too. Reasons for scent marking can include:

  • New smells in the house – New furniture, new pets, or even visitors can trigger marking.
  • Changes in the household – A move, a new baby, or changes in routine may make dogs feel they need to assert their presence.
  • Hormonal influences – Unneutered dogs, particularly males, may mark more often because of hormones.

Understanding the reason behind the marking is the first step to addressing it.

Spay or Neuter Your Dog

One of the most effective ways to reduce scent marking is to spay or neuter your dog. This can significantly decrease their urge to mark territory indoors, as it reduces the hormonal drive behind this behaviour. Many pet owners notice a drop in marking incidents once their dog is spayed or neutered, especially if they’re young.

Consider booking a consultation with a vet, for advice on spaying/neutering procedures.

Use an Enzymatic Cleaner

When a dog marks an area, they’ll often return to it if the scent isn’t thoroughly removed. Regular cleaning products may not eliminate the scent enough for your dog’s sensitive nose. Instead, use an enzymatic cleaner that breaks down the urine molecules, removing the smell completely and discouraging repeat marking.

Try an enzymatic cleaner like for best results.

Set Up Clear Boundaries

If your dog is marking in specific rooms or on certain furniture, you might want to limit their access temporarily. Use baby gates or close doors to limit their access, especially to areas they’ve marked before. By setting up these boundaries, you’re helping to break the cycle and give your dog less opportunity to mark indoors.

Reward Calm, Non-Marking Behaviour

Training is essential when curbing scent marking. If your dog tends to mark when they’re excited or anxious, focus on calming exercises. Reward them with treats and praise when they remain calm and relaxed in situations where they might usually mark. Over time, they’ll start to associate being calm with rewards, reducing their need to mark indoors.

Keep a Consistent Routine

Dogs feel more secure with a set routine, which can reduce the urge to mark. Try to feed, walk, and play with your dog at the same times each day. Regular toilet breaks outdoors are also essential – make sure your dog has ample opportunity to empty their bladder outside so that they’re less likely to mark inside.

Discourage Marking in Problem Areas

If your dog tends to mark the same spots, use deterrent sprays that discourage marking behaviour. These sprays contain scents that dogs don’t like and can be applied to furniture, doorways, and other spots that seem to attract marking. Always test the spray on a small area to ensure it doesn’t stain your furniture.

Diluted white vinegar also works as a deterrent! Dogs don’t like the smell of it. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it onto the area.

Seek Professional Training Help if Needed

If your dog’s marking behaviour is becoming unmanageable, a professional dog trainer or behaviourist can help. They can assess your dog’s behaviour, identify the triggers, and create a tailored plan to curb the marking habit.

For quick online professional help, you can ask a veterinarian on JustAnswer.

Final Thoughts

Scent marking can be a challenging habit to break, but with patience and the right strategies, it’s certainly possible. Remember that consistency and understanding are key. By addressing the underlying reasons for scent marking and keeping your home clean and calm, you’re setting the stage for a happier, more relaxed dog – and a home free of unwanted surprises!

Effective tips to stop your dog from scent marking indoors. Simple solutions to keep your home clean and discourage repeat marking.
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