My 4-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, Doakes, has started peeing in specific rooms every time he gets access. These rooms have been thoroughly cleaned, but he keeps doing it. It seems purposeful since he runs straight into them. On top of that, he’s always super energetic—constantly jumping and refusing to stay locked up. He even breaks or jumps over gates. This behavior has gotten worse recently, and I’m at a loss. Any advice?
Sounds like Doakes might be marking territory. Have you tried a calming diffuser or supplements like Zylkene? They can sometimes help with anxiety-driven behavior.
QuantumPulse said:
Sounds like Doakes might be marking territory. Have you tried a calming diffuser or supplements like Zylkene? They can sometimes help with anxiety-driven behavior.
I haven’t tried that yet. Do calming diffusers actually work? I’m skeptical but willing to give it a shot.
QuantumPulse said:
Sounds like Doakes might be marking territory. Have you tried a calming diffuser or supplements like Zylkene? They can sometimes help with anxiety-driven behavior.
They worked for my dog, but it’s hit or miss. It might at least take the edge off his excitement.
Have you considered crate training? A sturdy crate might keep him contained and give him a sense of security.
Austin said:
Have you considered crate training? A sturdy crate might keep him contained and give him a sense of security.
We tried gates, but he breaks or jumps over them. Would a crate really hold him if he’s that determined?
Austin said:
Have you considered crate training? A sturdy crate might keep him contained and give him a sense of security.
If you get a heavy-duty crate and train him to see it as a safe space, it could work. Takes patience, though.
Maybe he’s stressed? Dogs can act out like this when they’re anxious. Have there been any big changes at home recently?
DawgFella said:
Maybe he’s stressed? Dogs can act out like this when they’re anxious. Have there been any big changes at home recently?
Not really. His energy level has always been high, but the peeing has been worse lately.
DawgFella said:
Maybe he’s stressed? Dogs can act out like this when they’re anxious. Have there been any big changes at home recently?
Could just be a buildup of stress. Long walks or mentally stimulating toys might help burn off that extra energy.
Does he get enough exercise? Sometimes, high-energy dogs need more than just walks. Maybe try agility training or puzzle toys?
Scofield said:
Does he get enough exercise? Sometimes, high-energy dogs need more than just walks. Maybe try agility training or puzzle toys?
We take him on walks, but maybe he does need more. Do you have a favorite type of puzzle toy?
Scofield said:
Does he get enough exercise? Sometimes, high-energy dogs need more than just walks. Maybe try agility training or puzzle toys?
I like Kongs with frozen peanut butter—keeps them busy for a while. It’s great for burning mental energy too.
Have you ruled out medical issues? Sometimes peeing like that can be related to health problems.
Shaniera said:
Have you ruled out medical issues? Sometimes peeing like that can be related to health problems.
Good point. I haven’t checked with the vet yet. Guess that should be my next step.
Shaniera said:
Have you ruled out medical issues? Sometimes peeing like that can be related to health problems.
Yeah, better safe than sorry. If it’s not medical, you’ll know it’s behavioral, and you can focus there.