Does your dog seem to urinate unexpectedly when they get overly excited? This can be a difficult problem for many pet owners to manage. It’s essential to understand your dog most likely has no control over excitement urination, but there are things you can do to reduce or even eliminate the issue if you’re willing to work with your dog. When you learn the signs of excitement urination, you can take steps to help your dog control it.

Pay Attention to Body Language

If your dog suffers from excitement urination when overly excited, you will notice various signs like tail wagging and jumping and circling when he runs up to you. The best way to combat the problem in these situations is to help your dog calm down. If you see these signs, you can also take your dog outside immediately so they can relieve themselves in a better environment, though it can be challenging to get him outside in time.

If the cause of the excitement urination is due to submission, you need to watch for your dog to cower and withdraw when someone approaches. They typically don’t make eye contact and may tuck their tail between their legs. Continuing to approach may cause your dog to roll over with their tail remaining tucked.

Make a Vet Appointment

Veterinarians often have resources and tools pet owners can use to alleviate excitement urination with their dogs. Puppies are more likely to experience this problem because their bladder control is still underdeveloped, but if the problem persists into their adult years, your vet can rule out a urinary tract infection or other medical issue that could contribute to the issue. If the source isn’t medical, you must explore whether your pet has developed separation anxiety due to a recent incident or has suffered some form of abuse. Finding the trigger is the key to overcoming excitement urination.

Consider Socialization

For dogs that exhibit this behavior due to a submissive nature, socialization can help them overcome the problem. Socializing with other dogs helps them navigate the world and understand how to interact with other animals and people. If your dog is submissive, you can also lie on the floor with your head under his to give him the feeling of dominance, giving him greater confidence. In addition to this posturing, be sure to take your dog out to socialize as often as possible, whether for walks, to a dog park or just out and about with you. Let him take the lead with the leash. This process will take time but is well worth it.

Build Confidence

In addition to socialization, there are other steps you can take to help your dog build confidence. Let him come to you whenever you spend time together. Show your dog you aren’t threatening and are friendly with gentle pets and scratches while maintaining a slow rate of breathing. Never scold your dog, but instead provide positive reinforcement. Pay attention for triggers, such as visiting certain people or hearing the doorbell ring. This can help you take the appropriate steps to build his confidence.

Obedience Training

Most dogs thrive on obedience training. During these courses, they develop a sense of trust with their human companions and learn the proper way to behave in various situations. These classes teach you how to use positive reinforcement with your pet so he can learn to interact properly without the over excitement or submissive behaviors. Be sure you choose a qualified professional to get the most out of the training sessions, both for you and your dog.