Causes of Abnormal Behavior  
The Chronic Barker or Howler  
The Biting Dog  
How to Meet a Strange Dog  
The Car Chaser  
The Tramp Dog  
The "Piddler" or Wetting Dog  
The Sexually Frustrated Dog  
Tranquilizers  
Rehabilitating Problem Dogs  

THE "PIDDLER" OR WETTING DOG

Some dogs will frequently urinate from fear, excitement, and disease or injury to the kidneys and bladder. The very shy or timid dog often wets when scolded or spoken to in a harsh voice. Urinating is also an act of submission to authority. For example, a puppy will urinate when an older male dog exerts his authority. When an older male meets a young male puppy, certain preliminaries take place. The dogs sniff each other, determine the sex of each and then the older dog exerts his authority. There is a brief scuffle, usually ending with the pup upside down on his back. While in this position, he will urinate. He thus acknowledges the superiority of the older male.

In a sense, this behavior is carried on when you scold or speak harshly to a pup or timid dog. You are the symbol of authority and the dog submits by urinating. The timid dog takes it to extremes, of course, and never quite outgrows this juvenile trait.

If your dog is a piddler, he should first be examined for any disease or injury involving his kidneys or bladder. If he is free from disease or injury, then the problem is a behavioral one. Speak gently to the timid dog that piddles, and avoid sudden movements or threatening gestures. Pass the word along to the family and visitors. You may not be able to eliminate the tendency to urinate, but you will be able to reduce the frequency.