Best 6 Way How to Stop Your Dog From Peeing in the House When You Leave

Dealing with a dog that pees in the house when you’re not home can be challenging and frustrating. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and implementing effective strategies can help you manage and eventually eliminate the issue. This guide will walk you through potential causes and provide actionable steps best 6 way how to stop your dog from peeing in the house when you leave.

Understanding the Causes

1. Separation Anxiety
One of the most common reasons dogs pee in the house when left alone is separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit other behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, or scratching doors and windows.

2. Lack of House Training
If your dog hasn’t been properly house-trained, they may not understand that urinating inside the house is inappropriate, especially when you’re not around to correct them.

3. Medical Issues
Medical problems such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or incontinence can cause your dog to urinate indoors. A visit to the vet is crucial to rule out any underlying health issues.

4. Excessive Water Intake
If your dog drinks a lot of water before you leave, they may not be able to hold it until you return. Monitoring their water intake can help mitigate this issue.

Step-by-Step Guide How to Stop Your Dog From Peeing in the House When You Leave

Effective Strategies to Stop Indoor Urination

1. Address Separation Anxiety

If separation anxiety is the root cause, you’ll need to address this behavioral issue:

• Gradual Desensitization: Gradually get your dog used to being single. Start by leaving them alone for short periods and slowly increase the duration as they become more comfortable.
• Create a Safe Space: Provide a comfortable, secure area where your dog feels safe. This could be a crate, a specific room, or an area with their favorite toys & bedding.
• Leave Comfort Items: Items that carry your scent, such as a worn t-shirt, can help soothe your dog while you’re away.
• Use Calming Products: Pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, and calming supplements can help reduce anxiety in some dogs.

2. Proper House Training

Reinforce house training to remind your dog of the appropriate places to urinate:

• Regular Schedule: Take your dog out to urinate at consistent times each day, especially before you leave and immediately upon your return.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they urinate outside. Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the desired conduct.
• Supervision: When you’re home, supervise your dog closely to catch any signs that they need to go out, such as sniffing, circling, or whining.

3. Limit Access

Restrict your dog’s access to certain areas of the house when you’re not home:

• Use Baby Gates: Block off rooms where your dog has had accidents in the past.
• Confine to a Small Area: Confining your dog to a crate or a small, easily cleaned area can prevent accidents and reinforce proper bathroom habits.

4. Adjust Water Intake

Monitor and adjust your dog’s water intake:

• Scheduled Watering: Provide water at scheduled times throughout the day rather than allowing free access, particularly before you leave the house.
• Frequent Potty Breaks: Ensure your dog has ample opportunity to urinate before you leave.

5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is less likely to exhibit anxiety-related behaviors:

• Regular Exercise: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical exercise through walks, playtime, and other activities.
• Mental Stimulation: Provide toys and puzzles that engage your dog’s mind and keep them occupied while you’re away.

6. Medical Follow-Up

If you suspect a medical issue:

• Visit the Vet: Schedule an appointment with your vet to rule out any health problems that might be causing your dog to urinate indoors.
• Follow Vet’s Advice: Follow any treatment plans or recommendations provided by your vet.

Implementing a Training Plan

Step 1: Create a Routine
Establish a daily routine for feeding, watering, and bathroom breaks. Consistency helps your dog feel what is expected of them.

Step 2: Use Crate Training
Crate training can be very effective for house training and managing separation anxiety. Ensure the crate is the right size, comfortable, and associated with positive experiences.

Also read: How to Pick a German Shepherd Puppy Out of a Litter

Step 3: Gradual Absences
Start with short absences and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable being alone. Use a webcam to monitor your dog’s behavior while you’re away.

Step 4: Reward Calm Behavior
When you return home, reward your dog for calm behavior. Avoid making a big fuss upon leaving or returning, as this can heighten anxiety.

Step 5: Professional Help
If you’re struggling despite your best efforts, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide tailored advice and techniques to address your dog’s specific needs.

Conclusion

Correcting a dog’s behavior of peeing in the house when you leave requires understanding, patience, and consistency. By addressing potential causes such as separation anxiety, reinforcing house training, limiting access, adjusting water intake, and ensuring regular exercise and mental stimulation, you can help your dog develop better habits. Always rule out medical issues with a vet visit and consider seeking professional help if needed. With time and effort, you can create a happier, cleaner environment for both you and your dog.