spraying/cocking leg

Question
Hello, I have tho pitbulls. One is four months and the other is 9 months. I have trained the four month old since she was six weeks and she is fully potty trained, she will sit at the door and bark until you let her out. The 9 month old male on the other hand, I got him when he was 7 months and he is not neutered. He has a problem with cocking his leg in the house, especially on the corners of our couches. As soon as you let him in the house from being outside for and hour or two he will run in and cock his leg. I believe he was an outside dog only before we got him, and maybe beaten because when I tap him on the hind when he cocks his leg he ducks and cowers away. He will do this even if you just raise your hand fast or so forth. I just want him to stop cocking his leg on our furniture so we can let him in the house, I feel bad leaving him outside all day.

Answer
As young as he is, neutering might really help. Also, keep an eagle eye on him. I'd give a verbal interrupter as soon as he starts to sniff a vertical surface. Use baby gates, shut doors, even tether him to you so he is not out of your sight. Clean all marked areas really well with a good enzymatic cleaner. And you might try a belly band (or a pair of upside-down boys jockey shorts for a dog that size)so when he tries to leave his scent, all he gets is a warm wet feeling. (Of course, you'd change them frequently so he can stay clean) Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com