ArcaMax

I have a 7-year-old dog named Baxter. I have had him for five years. I have a doggy door that he uses to go into a fenced backyard. However, he pees on the dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, couch, and cardboard boxes. If my new boyfriend leaves the door to his room open, Baxter pees on surfaces in his room, most recently on a computer sitting on the floor. I have never caught him peeing. I always just clean up the mess and do not yell at him because he is sensitive. I am at a loss at what to do. – Autumn, Littleton, Colorado

Dear Autumn,

Your dog is likely marking the home to show that it is his, and the new boyfriend likely triggered the behavior even more. There are a few ways to address this problem. First, make sure your dog is fixed. Second, get a canine pheromone collar for him to wear so he is more relaxed and receptive to training. Third, make sure the house is picked up to limit his places to pee. No computers, cardboard boxes or dirty laundry on the floor.

Next, use an enzymatic cleaner (available at the pet store) to remove all traces of the urine so he is not drawn back to the same spot. Then, start leaving treats in these areas for him to find. If he thinks he might find a treat by the dishwasher, he is less likely to pee on it.

Don’t rely on the doggy door. Routinely take him outside to reduce his ability to mark.

Finally, have your boyfriend feed your dog, give him treats, pet him and take him for walks. They need to forge a relationship since your dog may be feeling anxious with his presence. The walks also will encourage Baxter to mark outside, which should help limit his inside offenses.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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