Why Dogs Mark? What’s Marking?
Dogs are fascinating creatures and have unique behaviors that make them who they are. One of these behaviors is marking with urine, and it is an instinctual behavior that can be seen in both domestic and wild dogs.
What’s marking?
Urine marking is the act of a dog lifting its leg and depositing small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces such as trees, bushes, or even furniture in the home. This behavior is more commonly seen in male dogs but can also be seen in females. Dogs mark their territory as a way of communicating with other dogs, and the scent of their urine serves as a signal to other dogs that this is their space.
Why dogs mark?
There are several reasons why dogs mark with urine.
In cities and urban areas is very common that dogs may mark with urine as a way to relieve stress or anxiety. Dogs that are nervous or stressed may mark more frequently, as it provides them with a sense of comfort and security. This behavior can also be a result of changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or the introduction of new people or animals into their space.
Dogs also mark to establish territorial boundaries. Dogs have a natural instinct to protect their space, and marking with urine is one way they communicate this to other dogs. This behavior is especially common in male dogs who are trying to establish dominance over other dogs. The scent of the urine will tell other dogs that this is their territory, and they are the dominant dog in the area.
Another reason why dogs mark with urine is to signal their reproductive status. When female dogs are in heat, they will mark more frequently, and their scent will signal to male dogs that they are ready to mate. This is a way for female dogs to attract potential mates and communicate their reproductive status.
Summing up
Marking with urine is a natural behavior for dogs, and it serves several purposes. It is a way for dogs to communicate with other dogs, establish territorial boundaries, signal their reproductive status, and relieve stress and anxiety. Understanding why dogs mark with urine can help us better understand and manage this behavior in our pets. If you are experiencing a problem with your dog marking in the home, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer who can help you find a solution.
© Gabriel Riesco, Pawmos Dog Training LLC | All Rights Reserved March 2023