Submissive Urination

[crazy_paws]

Okay, I'm currently fostering my cousin's chihuahua mix until she can find a pet-friendly apartment.

Tinkerbell submissively urinates. I keep her in an x-pen while I'm at work. When I go to get her to take her potty and play, she hunkers and pees.

I always make sure my demeanor is positive around her and she wags her tail while doing this. I also don't offer eye-contact while getting her out.

This isn't something I've dealt with before, so any suggestions are welcome.

 

[HayleyMarie]

When you come home try and ignore her for a bit and when you do take her out and she pees ignore that as well. Try and ignore her until she settles down. Then praise and give her attention and take her outside.

I have dewlt with this before and this seemed to work.

 

[FarmerGirl2010]

I'm eager to see a picture of her. XD Bad me.

I agree with the ignoring. It helps some submissive dogs.

 

[crazy_paws]

I'll give that a try.

I'll also try to get some pictures of her.

It's kind of funny that a chihuahua mix named Tinkerbell is the biggest dog in my house currently. lol

 

[lizzybeth727]

I also had some luck fixing this problem by never reinforcing "submissive" behaviors; for example, flopping over for a belly rub. Combine this with training exercises to help build her confidence.

 

[Maura]

I think ignoring her when you come home is a good start. Watch out of the corner of your eye. When she offers an attentive sit toss her a little treat. Her own kibble is fine. Keep tossing her little treats while you open the gate and go to the door. This may distract her enough to make it to the door. It also tells her that you are happy with her and she doesn't need to appease you.