peeing on the sofa

Question
my chow chow is 8 years old and recently when i go out she has started peeing on the sofa even though she has been taken out before hand i do not understand why she would just start to do this please help

Answer
Hi Lisa,

Thanks for writing to me about your Chow Chow.  The fist piece of advice would be to have a physical exam by your vet to determine if she has any medical issues, such as a bladder infection or overactive bladder which can happen in older female dogs just as it can in humans.  There are medications for this.

She may also have developed separation anxiety to something that has happened recently in her life.  It might not be something that would have any meaning to a human being but to a dog it could cause anxiety.  Some dogs are so sensitive that even moving a piece of furniture can set off peeing in the house due to anxiety and/or confusion.  Think back in detail to recall if there have been any changes in the home or even increases stress on the human level.

I would suggest that if there is nothing medically wrong that you give her some calming herbs which you can buy at your pet store...or order on line...I like Tran-quil, which I give to my own dog.

There is also something called an anxiety shirt that you can put on her to help calm her when you leave.

If all else fails, it would be time to begin a puppy housebreaking protocol.  If you look back through my responses concerning dogs peeing in the house you will find the entire protocol.  If you can't locate it, please feel free to get back to me.

In the meantime, close off the room to prevent access to the couch when you leave or put a rubber sheet under a blanket or cotton sheet so that it doesn't seep into the upolstery.  Vinegar is a great way to clean and get rid of the odor.

Sincerely,
Shelley Davis