Why Does My Dog Urinate on My Bed?

Some dog owners report the problem of a pet urinating on their bed. When an animal urinates in an inappropriate location it could mean many things, or a combination of things. It could be the result of a physical problem, an emotional matter or it could stem from dog behavior issues. You must determine why your dog pees on your bed before you establish a plan to curtail the problem.

Physical reasons a pet may urinate on your bed:

The dog needs to 'go' more often.

The most obvious physical reason your pet pees on your bed is because he does not have access to an appropriate place to relieve himself. Or the animal simply cannot hold his urine for as long as you expect him to. In these cases, your bed may be the location of choice.

If a pet is not allowed to urinate when necessary it can lead to a urinary tract infection or a kidney or bladder problem. Any of these physical issues can cause more peeing on your bed.

The dog has a urinary tract infection or a similar issue.

Another common physical reason dogs pee on their human companion's bed is because they have a urinary tract infection (UTI) or related problem. If your dog suddenly begins urinating on your bed and/or in other unusual places, take note of the following:

Is there blood or discoloration in the dog's urine?
Does the urine have an unusual odor?
Is the animal straining or does he appear uncomfortable when urinating?
Does your pet seem sluggish and weary?

Any of these symptoms combined with urinating in inappropriate places may be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Have your dog examined by a licensed veterinarian to rule out the possibility of a UTI or similar physical ailment.

Emotional reasons that a pet may pee on your bed:

Some dogs pee on your bed as a means of communication, to get your attention and let you know something is wrong. Or to let you know they feel they are in a stressful situation. Consider your pet's behavior and environment. Determine if anything has changed. Some questions to ask:

Is the dog getting enough exercise and attention?
Has there been a dramatic change in our routine?
Is there a new pet (puppy, kitten, cat, dog, bird, etc.) in the home?
Does the pet have access to ample food, water and shelter?

Your dog may be stressed and seek the comfort of peeing where the scent of his companion / protector is the strongest. Consider whether your dog is using inappropriate urination as a means of communicating a need for help.

Behavioral reasons a dog will urinate on your bed:

Is the dog properly housetrained? If yes, then the most likely behavioral reason a dog urinates on your bed is to display dominance or extreme submission.

Dominance urination

Dogs are pack animals and consider the people and other animals in the household as pack members. Within each dog pack there is a distinct hierarchy with a clear pack leader. When the human in the household does not display proper leadership skills the dog will assume the role of protector and leader.

When a dog feels thrust into a leadership position he will often mark an area he feels capable of protecting or a space that is so important to him that he would sacrifice himself to defend it. In some cases, that important place is your bed.

Submissive urination

Alternatively, an exceptionally timid or shy dog may pee on your bed to please you (his leader and superior) by showing extremely submissive behavior.

If your dog pees on your bed, determine why. This inappropriate dog behavior can be fixed. Consult books, trainers, veterinarians or other animal resources to establish a plan of action.

Related Articles:
Strengthen the Relationship with Your Dog
How to Choose a Responsible Day Care Facility for Your Dog

Sources:
Partnership for Animal Welfare - http://www.paw-rescue.org/
The Pet Shrink - http://thepetshrink.info/pet-help/