What to Do If Your Dog Is Urinating Indoors
Last updated: 3 August 2025
Step 1: Rule Out Medical Causes
Before assuming it's a behavioural issue, book a vet check-up. Medical problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, bladder stones, or age-related incontinence can cause dogs to urinate more frequently or lose control. Your vet can run tests and recommend treatment if necessary.
Step 2: Revisit House Training
If you’ve recently adopted the dog or they’re still a puppy, they may need reinforcement in house training. Use positive reinforcement — praise and reward your dog immediately after they toilet outside. Be consistent with routines and avoid punishing accidents, as this can lead to anxiety and more issues.
Step 3: Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly
Dogs are likely to return to spots they’ve previously soiled. Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove all odours — standard household sprays might not be enough. Avoid ammonia-based products, as they can smell similar to urine and encourage repeat accidents.
Step 4: Identify Triggers or Patterns
Keep a log of when and where accidents happen. Is it when the dog is left alone? After excitement or nervousness? Recognising patterns can help you understand if it's anxiety, a lack of routine, or something else.
Step 5: Address Behavioural Causes
Dogs may urinate indoors due to stress, changes in the household, or marking behaviour. If your dog is anxious or acting out, provide a calm environment, regular walks, and mental stimulation. In multi-pet homes, ensure there’s no territorial tension triggering marking.
Step 6: Stick to a Regular Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Feed your dog at the same times each day and offer toilet breaks first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bed. Puppies and older dogs may need more frequent trips.
Step 7: Consider Professional Help
If the issue persists, a professional dog trainer or animal behaviourist (certified by the ABTC or APBC in the UK) can work with you to uncover deeper behavioural causes and provide tailored solutions.