Why does my dog continue to pee from excitement, even as an adult?

Question

I've got a golden retriever, and generally he doesn't have any accidents when he's by himself. He can hold his bladder for hours at a time, like times when I'm at school. A lot of the time when I come home though, and I put his leash on to make him pee, he pees on the floor. As well as that, he also seems to pee when we touch him, but not as often. It's starting to become a real bother, and we're out of options. He's got no history or abuse, or at least none that we know of. We bought him from a breeder when he was 2 months old. Does anyone have a solution to my problem? What would it take to make him stop peeing on the floor?

Answer 1

It's an act of submission.
Follow these simple steps to help your dog get over his exaggerated submission:
DO NOT scold, punish or attempt to physically correct the dog, as it will only make it worse. He is already very submissive and showing it. By scolding him, you will only cause your dog to "pee" more.
Ignore him when you first come home. Let your dog sniff around and be excited for a while, without your interference.
Avoid bending down over the dog, making eye contact or speaking to him, especially in high tones.
Once your dog has settled down a bit:
Lower your body, making yourself appear smaller and less threatening. Without bending over, keep your torso upright, and let your dog come over without you calling him. Offer your hand to be sniffed and give your dog a tiny treat. Scratch/pet him a little bit on the chest, not the head, and speak briefly, if at all, in a low, soft tone of voice, still avoiding eye contact.
If your dog pees, back off without saying anything, and make your next interaction less overwhelming.
Keep interactions short!
Insist family members and friends who come to visit adopt the same procedure with your dog. Tell strangers who want to come up and pet your dog to let your dog approach first. If your dog doesn't want to, DO NOT force him. If he is hiding behind you, let him do so. Remain in your position and provide the security of "the pack". Praise him encouragingly only if he starts to approach and say nothing if he shows fear or hesitation.