My dog pees when I try to get close (Only serious responses please)?

Question

My dog pees when I try to pet him or more so when I lean over or crawl over. When I am standing and talk to him and stuff he is fine. Its just when I try to lean over him or something even close to doing that. Not sure about his past but is there a way to break him of this? Has anyone had experience with trying to break this? Or is it even possible? I would like to be able to scratch his belly and cuddle with him without the fear of him peeing on me.

Answer 1

It is very unlikely that your dog was abused... it is much more likely that your dog is a particularly submissive individual. When dealing with submissive urination, like one other person said... avoid bending over or other "dominating" displays (you may not view this as domination but your dog sure does). Sit or crouch next to your pup, don't make eye contact with him, and use treats and praise to help build his confidence. Never yell or scold him for this, that just makes him more afraid, and he's already "telling" you that he knows you are the boss, discipline will make it worse.

If you can somehow get him outside with minimal interaction first... let him do his business outside, then start interacting with him... that may lessen the messes.

Go slowly, be gentle and kind, and get down on his level (literally) and you will make progress.

Answer 2

Lot of very good advice, but the one thing that has not been mentioned here is that with submissive urination, you should never ever ever ever ever punish for the piddle. The best thing you can do is ignore it while you follow the other advice. The dog is peeing because he is scared or uncertain or overall trying to tell you that he is the metaphorical dirt below your feet, so ANY display of displeasure will just make him more inclined to be upset and show you even more how unworthy he is... by peeing more.

Things to avoid:
* direct eye contact
* lots of energy or quick movements
* leaning over him
* facing or approaching him directly; instead, walk up to him in a half circle or approach crab-like with one side turned to him
* lots of "good boy, it's okay, it's okay" or excitable happy voice -- go with quiet for now. With some dogs, you can't even talk to them at all lest they urinate

All of this shouldn't have to be forever, but definitely until your dog has gained more confidence

Answer 3

This sounds like a phenomenon called 'submissive wetting'. You don't mention it but I am assuming (I know, I know, hehe) that he lowers his head and tail and gets as close to the ground as possible all while trying really hard not to make eye contact when you bend down??
I would try sitting on the floor with him before you try leaning over. This may be a more "non-threatening" posture and it may be easier for him to 'read'. Dogs have very, very specific body language and it may be that he is just trying to let you know that he sees you as the dominant member of the pack. This is a good thing, within reason...
Always speak in very soft, low tones and only make eye contact with him if he makes it first. When he stops "hunkering down" and tries to stand up, praise him.
Read up on canine pack behavior, it is rather interesting and may give you some insight.
BTW, some breeds are just known for this - cocker spaniels, daschunds, etc. ALSO, try to make sure that his bladder is empty before you interact with him. This will make sure that your carpet is safe while you are working on the submissive thing.
Good luck and hope this helps!!

Answer 4

It sounds as if the dog is afraid of you. Back off and wait for the dog to approach you.

We rescued a dog 6 years ago. She was in very bad shape and it was clear that she had been abused. For the first two years, she'd leave the room when I walked in. The next two years, she'd leave if I sat down. After 4 years, she let me wrap my arms around her. It was at this time that we learned that she is diabetic. Caring for her is time intensive and no one has the patience to do what must be done. Since it was left up to me to see to her general well-being, the dog follows me around everywhere even though she can barely see at this point. She panics when I have to leave, but when I come back, she stays put. She might wag the tip of her tail.

She never objected to being around my husband and my son, but it was clear that she doesn't care for women. I love her anyway.

Answer 5

It might be that he is excited. My dog used to do the same thing when new people would pet her. It took some time but after a while she stopped. She still does it every now and then but its a lot better. Just be patient.

Answer 6

Your dog was probably beaten before you got him. Unfortunatly only time can really cure this. You have to work with your dog. Take him outside for a walk and stop, pet him and keep going. Repeat this process. This is going to take a while, but the results are worth it.

Answer 7

He think you are the pack leader he is being submissive.
Don't look him in the eye & dont speak to him when you first enter a space
Check out the Dog Whisper show also they have DVD at the library

Answer 8

How old is your dog, if he is a puppy he might just be excited that you are showing him affection. As a puppy my dog peed every time I came home from worker or she meet a new person. But you might want to check with you Vet to make sure there aren't any crystals in his urine. Good Luck!

Answer 9

your dog is scared or nervouse that's why he pees. he must of had a bad past. it will take time for him to trust u, but if u want him to change faster u got to show him that ur not going to harm him it will take some time show him that not all humans are the same. don't get frustrated because ur'll gonna have to start all over again good luck

Answer 10

some puppies pee when they get excited, they dont even have to have a bad past, I had this one pup that peed every time I gave her a treat.....dont worry he will grow out of it :) And really puppy pee doesnt stain or really smell that bad hehe so dont worry if you get a lil on your clothes hehe ;)