Why do dogs mark territory?

For as cute and amusing as our four-legged children can be, their behavior can be irritating at times. With that in mind, we’ve created a five-step guide to help all pet parents on how to deal with dogs marking territory.

Why do dogs mark territories?

You might have noticed that dogs mark territory. This furry behavior is so common that it even frequently appears in cartoons! But why do dogs mark territories?

A specialized doctor on the subject explained that this behavior is related to the animal’s ancestors. When feeling threatened, dogs need to assert themselves as members of the space. Therefore, marking territory means protection.

How to help your furry friend stop marking territory?

As we’ve seen, most of the time, marking territory is related to external factors that can bother dogs. So, how do you stop dogs from marking territories? Below, we’ll teach you how to identify problems and propose solutions.

Identify the type of urine

The first step is to determine if you have a dog marking territory or just a pet that doesn’t know where to pee. As explained by Dr. Louise, the urine is different in both cases, and it’s not difficult to notice the difference.

• Common urine: It has a large quantity and a weak smell. In these cases, it might be necessary to enhance healthy learning. Veterinarians remind that, in some cases, inappropriate urination can be a symptom of a health problem.
• Territory-marking urine: When the dog is marking territory, they will urinate in small amounts with a very strong smell. Dr. Louise explained that, in some cases, the urine comes out in jets that can reach furniture or even walls.

Get to the root of the problem

Now that you know your dog is marking territory, the second step is to find the origin of the problem. As explained by Dr. Ana Paula, a female dog acts when feeling threatened. This can happen for different reasons:

• Check if there have been recent sudden changes in your family, if other pets have visited your home, or if dogs in the area are behaving differently.

Try to make your pet more comfortable

The best way to avoid this problem is to show your furry friend that they are safe and have nothing to fear! Some advice can help in this regard.

• Make all necessary introductions: It’s normal for older residents to feel threatened when a new pet arrives. However, with a little encouragement, both realize they can be good friends! Introduce one pet to another and play games involving the whole family. This is a way to show your four-legged child that new friends are always welcome.
• Block the street view: When a pet is in constant contact with the outside world, they constantly observe other dogs, individuals, cars, and potentially threatening elements. Try placing your furry friend in a more secluded space.
• Avoid loud noises and high movements: Situations like work, moving, and other very busy situations can be stressful for pets. If you’re going through a time like this, move your pet to another room where they will be more comfortable.

The above advice often helps when dogs mark territory, but in some cases, other measures are necessary.

Consider sterilization

Do neutered dogs mark territory? Actually, neutering is the most effective way to prevent this furry behavior. As explained by Dr. Ana Paula, this behavior is almost never seen in pets that have already been in the field.

This is a simple and safe procedure highly recommended by experts! In addition to making your pet calmer and less agitated, neutering can prevent serious health problems, such as dreaded tumors.

Neutering a dog can reduce “territory marking,” a responsible training practice. However, if your pet continues to exhibit this behavior even after surgery, you will need to seek help. Neutered dogs mark territory only in very atypical and specific situations.

Consult a professional

“We recommend seeking a behavior specialist, especially if the animal is already accustomed,” commented the doctor.