If your female dog is peeing on the bed every night, it's likely due to a combination of factors, including medical issues, anxiety, and lack of training.
According to our research, one in five dogs suffers from urinary incontinence, which can be caused by a range of health problems, including kidney stones, infections, and hormonal imbalances.
First, make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. Dogs need regular physical activity to stay healthy, and a lack of exercise can lead to anxiety and peeing in the house.
A study found that dogs that don't get enough physical activity are more likely to develop behavioral problems, including peeing in the house.
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Housebreaking a Dog
Housebreaking a dog requires consistency and supervision, especially when they start wanting to mark. Supervision is a must around the time they start wanting to mark.
A crate is your best solution to prevent accidents when you can't catch them. Consistency is key to preventing a dog from marking in the house.
If you do miss an accident, be sure to clean the area thoroughly with an odour eliminator to destroy the temptation. Cleaning the area thoroughly is crucial to prevent re-marking.
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Addressing Underlying Issues
Spaying or neutering your dog as soon as possible can greatly reduce urine-marking behavior. The longer you wait, the more difficult it is to train them not to mark in the house.
If your dog has been marking for a long time, a pattern may already be established, making it a learned behavior. This means spaying or neutering alone won't solve the problem.
Punishment only increases anxiety and may cause your dog to hide when they need to go to the bathroom, making it harder to train them. So, it's essential to use positive techniques to modify their marking behavior.
To address underlying issues, follow these steps:
- Clean soiled areas thoroughly with a cleaner specifically designed to eliminate urine odor.
- Make previously soiled areas inaccessible or unattractive.
- Keep objects that might cause marking out of reach.
- Resolve conflicts between animals in your home.
- Make friends with a new resident by feeding and playing with your dog.
- Watch your dog for signs they need to urinate and take them outside calmly.
- Consider crate training or tethering your dog to monitor them when you're distracted.
If your dog is marking due to anxiety, talk to your vet about whether medications may be appropriate.
Preventing Accidents
You can take several steps to prevent accidents and keep your bed dry. Invest in a waterproof mattress protector to protect your mattress from accidents.
Dog diapers or potty pads can be a great solution to keep your bed dry. They can be especially helpful for dogs that have trouble controlling their bladder.
Using a waterproof mattress cover can also help save your bed from accidents. It's a simple and effective solution that can make a big difference.
The better you clean your dog's accidents, the less likely they will be to continue peeing in your bed. High-quality enzyme cleaners can help eliminate the smell and make cleanup easier.
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Health Issues
Health Issues can be a major contributor to female dogs peeing on the bed. If you suspect that your dog's behavior is caused by a medical issue, it's essential to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause involuntary urination, and dogs can get UTIs, just like cats. Other medical conditions that may result in indoor accidents include ectopic ureters, uroliths, Cushing's Disease, kidney disease, and spinal cord diseases.
Some medical conditions can lead to canine incontinence, especially in older dogs. Your veterinarian can help diagnose and treat any underlying medical issues that may be causing your dog's behavior.
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If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's time to consult a veterinarian: separation anxiety, indoor peeing, or bladder issues. Your veterinarian will work with you to determine the best course of action and may prescribe medication to help manage any underlying medical conditions.
Here are some common health issues that may cause female dogs to pee on the bed:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Ectopic ureters
- Uroliths
- Cushing's Disease
- Kidney disease
- Spinal cord diseases
Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution and consult a veterinarian if you suspect that your dog's behavior is caused by a medical issue.
Sources
- https://www.mccanndogs.com/blogs/articles/dont-pee-on-that-how-to-stop-dog-marking-behaviours
- https://rockykanaka.com/so-your-dog-peed-on-your-bed/
- https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-stop-your-dog-peeing-unwanted-spots
- https://www.fourpaws.com/pets-101/potty-time-and-training/why-is-puppy-peeing-inside
- https://www.servicedogtrainingschool.org/blog/why-does-my-dog-pee-my-bed
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