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 Pet Central
Q&A
Q: My son's 6-month-old terrier mix
pees when she's petted. It's very frustrating because it occurs on our
living room rug. Will this tendency disappear as she matures? Is there
something we can do? -- P.S., Cyberspace
A: Your pup is being very polite,
offering a canine version of a bouquet of flowers. This is not related
to housebreaking. By the way, we're presuming your pup doesn't have a
bladder infection, and we suggest you consult your vet to make certain.
Brian Kilcommons, host of "Pet News" on the Fox News Channel and co-author
of "Tails From the Bark Side" with Sarah Wilson (Warner Books, New York,
N.Y., 1997; $18), says what you're describing is submissive urination.
Odds are your dog piddles when
loved ones arrive home. "Don't make a big fuss and don't reach to pet
her," Kilcommons says. Instead, he recommends calmly telling her "sit."
Then, offer her something else to do, such as giving her a treat. You
may also ask her to get a favorite toy. This should take her mind off
"the gift" she wanted to present at your feet. However, if her excitement
continues, promptly take her outside to eliminate.
Meanwhile, take your dog to a
positive and upbeat training class; this will give her confidence. If
she does offer a surprise gift, don't reprimand her; it will make matters
worse.
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