Dear Scout,
I hope you don’t mind me asking instead of my dog, but he doesn’t think there is a problem. I, on the other hand, think there is a big problem that needs correcting! My 9 month old schnauzer mix named “Tricky” has suddenly begun urinating and not just on everything that stands still, but on everything that moves as well! It started as the typical walking around the yard lifting his leg on every other bush, then it progressed to every bush, then every bush plus every post of the fence, and, as of one week ago – it has escalated to him even lifting his leg and urinating on our other dog, his littermate! I scold him, but it doesn’t seem to deter him at all. Could there be something wrong with him or is this just his personality? Please help!
Gratefully,
Drowning in Duval
Dear Drowning in Duval,
I have two words for you… NEU-TER! What we have here is a classic case of testosterone poisoning. We talk all of the time about the undesirable behaviors of unsterilized pets and “Tricky” is demonstrating another one of them for us. His urinating is almost certainly a symptom of being an unneutered male seeking dominance in the household. Nothing that neutering can’t fix, though. Nevertheless, it is probably a good idea to see a veterinarian to rule out urinary tract problems, as well. In any case, I strongly urge you to schedule a neuter appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. As we’ve said hundreds of times – the benefits to you and your pet are endless.
Sincerely,
Jake
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