Question:
I've had and loved dogs all my life. I am now at the point where I resent my two male neutered dogs (one a collie, the other a chow/collie mix) because they urinate competitively in the house -- on the corner of my bed, on a leg of the piano, on my sofa, on my stereo speakers, everywhere.I've tried odor neutralizers and scolding them both (not knowing which one did it is very frustrating in terms of discipline), but nothing works. Please help.
S.J., Miami, FL Jun 05, 2005
Answer:
You have, indeed, a maddening situation that is (short of separating the dogs and adopting one out to a good home) not easy to rectify. Patience and endurance on your part is called for.Clean up all marked areas with enzyme cleaner or diluted white vinegar, then cover them as best as you can with sheets of plastic.Keep your dogs in one room while you are home (with both on leashes for control), and never let them out of your sight. Any instance of leg-raising to urinate should be disciplined with a loud "No!" followed by shaking a can one-quarter full of nuts and bolts. Walk the dogs every hour or so and praise their marking and urinating outdoors. Train both to sit and stay so you establish dominance and they learn leash control.If there is an element of stress or anxiety associated with their need to mark in the house, have your veterinarian put your dogs on Xanax (or a similar anxiety-alleviating drug) for seven to 10 days.
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