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Dog Peeing: How To Stop A Dog From Marking In The House

Learn effective methods to prevent and manage your dog’s territorial marking behavior indoors. Learn how to redirect and create a harmonious living space.

dog marking on shoes
Duet Postscriptum / Stocksy
When a new dog moves into your home, it is not at all uncommon for them to feel the need to “raise the yellow flag” and claim their new territory as their own by marking it with some urine. Since many newly adopted dogs are already housebroken, this may just be a one-time incident — but it could be a recurring problem.

One of the causes of territorial marking is hormones, and the other is social communication. Your dog might be trying to stake their claim on a territory, or they could be letting you know how they feel about that new couch (household changes are a huge trigger for urine marking).

Knowing how to stop a dog from marking inside can be tricky. Luckily, there are a few simple “tricks” you can try to put a stop to that leg lifting or squatting. Read on for five tips about how to stop a dog from marking inside your home.

1. Assess the marking behavior

The first step to help stop your dog from marking in the house is to determine why they are doing it. Start a log and note the times and locations of your dog’s marking habits. Is your dog marking in one spot or multiple spots? Do they mark only when alone or in front of you? Did they suddenly begin marking in the house when they previously weren’t? Make a record so you can better assess the root cause. This also gives you a starting point when you reach out to your vet.

2. Give them enough potty breaks

Even a dog who was fully housebroken in their prior home or foster home will need time to adjust to your schedule, including going to the bathroom on a new routine and in new places. Just like in housebreaking, make sure to give your dog as many potty breaks as possible in the beginning, on a schedule, and praise them when they go outside.

3. Schedule a vet check-up

Bladder or urinary infections can be painful and cause a dog to urinate urgently and frequently. Make a vet appointment ASAP to rule out this cause. If your pup isn’t altered, this is another reason to consider doing so. Spay/neuter surgery will often eliminate hormonally-driven marking, but it does take time for hormone levels to subside enough to make a difference. If your dog was just altered, treat them as you would an un-housebroken dog and go back to house training 101.

4. Use an enzyme cleaner

If you don’t completely get rid of the pee smell, your pup might keep marking their territory in the same spot. Soak the area with a pet urine enzyme cleaner and let it fully dry. If your home is humid or has wall-to-wall carpeting or upholstery, you can use a hair dryer to speed up the process after one day. Do not allow your dog access to that area while it is drying. If there is a removable carpet in that area (doormats are popular pee spots), put it outside.

5. Train your dog to stop marking

The key to stopping your dog from marking is prevention. If you’re not directly supervising your pup, temporarily crate them or keep them gated off from the spots they were marking. While your dog is out of their crate, don’t let them out of your sight. Look for signs that your dog is getting ready to mark (sniffing around, lifting their leg, circling around, etc.), then follow these steps to stop scent marking:

If they’re about to mark, interrupt them with a short and abrupt sound (Aarp!).
Redirect them outside, and reward them if they pee.
Repeat.

What if my dog is marking a single spot?

If your dog is marking in one spot repeatedly, put your dog’s crate or bed on top of that “marking spot,” or try to block the spot as much as possible. Often that’s all it takes, although some dogs will still raise the flag on their crate but not their bed. If the bed or crate stops your dog from marking, keep it in that spot for at least two weeks. If the bed/crate doesn’t work, try their food and water bowls. If that works, feed your dog there for two weeks.

Are belly bands useful?

Belly bands can be a training tool, but they do not address the root causes of why your dog is marking. They should not be a replacement for properly house training your dog. When in doubt, consult a trainer to see if a belly band can be a useful tool for your dog. The idea behind belly bands is that dogs are less likely to mark when they feel wetness against them.

What is a belly band? Belly bands are a cloth wrap, kind of like a diaper, that goes around the waist of a male dog to discourage them from peeing in inappropriate places.
Are belly bands humane? There is some debate over whether or not belly bands are humane; when used correctly, belly bands are not cruel. Belly bands should be a temporary measure used in conjunction with training and only while supervised.
Can a dog wear a belly band all day? Belly bands should not be worn constantly; they should be changed every three to four hours or as soon as your dog soils them to avoid irritation. They also should not be worn when pet parents aren’t around to supervise so they don’t get caught on furniture or otherwise cause your dog harm.

What if my dog is anxious marking?

In addition to training, some have found using an ADAPTL (dog appeasing pheromones) collar, diffuser, or spray helpful in calming their anxious dog, which helps stop territorial marking. These collars are about $10 at pet stores, and most vet offices carry some version of it, too.

Success story

Here is one real-life example of how one adopter worked through territorial marking with their newly adopted dog, Max. The first week Max was with his adopters, he didn’t have any accidents, but then he started to pee in his parent’s studio, where he slept at night, was fed, and was kept while alone in the house. It also happened to be a spot where the adopter’s previous dog had accidents when she was sick. Max’s new parent never left him alone for more than two hours at a time outside of bedtime, and he was walked and played with regularly, but he continued to pee inside — even if he had been out shortly before.

Because Max was marking in one spot repeatedly, they followed the above advice: They cleaned the floor with an enzymatic cleaner and put his bed on top of the spot, and Max stopped marking the area.

What if these techniques don’t help?

Is there another underlying behavioral issue? Issues like marking can be exacerbated by a lack of training and discipline; pets need guidance to help them navigate the human world. Lack of training is the number one reason dogs end up in shelters. Training a dog — especially a puppy — can be overwhelming and takes some time, but many behavior issues have relatively simple solutions, and the advice of a good book, trainer, behaviorist, or veterinarian could help. You could also try a local trainer who uses positive, humane training methods. You can choose from a variety of training methods ranging from group classes to private, in-home lessons to board-and-train.

Figuring out how to stop a dog from marking inside may take some time and patience, but it will be well worth it when you start to see results.

What if you’ve exhausted all these resources and still could not get to the root of the problem? Our experts at Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com understand how difficult it can be to figure out the best course of action. While we always want to find ways for you to work through behavior and training issues and keep your pet, if you are struggling and have started thinking about rehoming your pet, Rehome — a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet owners to post their pets on Adopt-a-Pet.com to be seen by millions of potential adopters — could be a good resource for you.

FAQ (People Also Ask):

How do I stop my dog from marking his territory in the house?

First, assess the marking behavior, then make sure they get enough potty breaks, take them to their vet, or pursue other tips in this article.

Why does my dog mark his territory in the house?

Dogs mark to advertise their presence and claim territory and resources.

How do I stop my male dog from peeing on everything inside?

First, assess the marking behavior. Then pursue the advice in this article based on their behavior and potentially consult a veterinarian.

Should I punish my dog for marking in the house?

No, positive reinforcement is a more effective training method than punishment.

Do belly bands stop dogs from marking?

Belly bands prevent your dog from marking on your possessions or surfaces but do not address the root causes of marking.

Are belly bands for dogs cruel?

Belly bands are not cruel if used correctly. They should remain on dogs for no longer than three to four hours and should be replaced immediately after being soiled.

References:

A Commonsense Approach to the House-Soiling Dog

Patterns of Scent Marking with Urine and Faeces Amongst Carnivore Communities

Dog Language – An Encyclopedia Of Canine Behavior

How To Introduce A Cat To A Dog? 6 Essential Steps

Introducing a cat to a dog? Navigate the process with ease using our expert guide on creating a harmonious bond between your pets.

manx cat cuddles with labrador retriever dog
Samantha Gehrmann / Stocksy
If you have a new cat or are planning on adopting one — congratulations! If you already have a dog at home (who, ideally, you already know is good with cats), you’re probably wondering how to best introduce them. The good news is that many dogs and cats get along just fine. “[They] either benignly ignore one another or act like close friends. They often live together relatively easily despite differences in communication signals and the issue of some dogs viewing cats as prey. However, when the relationship is tense, it can cause deep distress for household members of every species, and can even lead to the surrender of one or more pets,” says animal behaviorist Karen B. London, PhD in her article Dogs and Cats Can Be Happy Together.

There are many ways to go about this introduction, but you can use the six steps below to slowly and safely get your family members acquainted. You can also use this technique for a new-dog-to-resident-cat introduction if you know the dog has lived safely with cats before.

It’s also best to enroll the help of a professional pet behaviorist or trainer, especially if you don’t know if your dog is cat-safe. Nothing replaces in-person observations and expertise for the safety of all involved; it’s worth the cost.

Introducing cats to dogs

How long does it take for a new cat to get used to a dog?

This method of introducing a cat or kitten to a dog uses a crate and lots of time. Taking it slow — which can be as quickly as one week or as long as months, depending on the pets being introduced — is really worth it for everyone’s safety and stress levels (including yours).

Six essential steps in introducing cats to dogs

Step 1: Get your home ready

First, get your dog ready. If they do not already know the commands “sit” and “stay,” they should learn them before being introduced to your cat for the first time.

To get your cat ready, set up their isolation room with food, water, a litter box, and a bed. This room allows your cat a chance to become adjusted to their new home. “Adjusted” is behaving in a relaxed manner, properly using their litter box, not hiding, and no big black dilated irises at noises from the other side of the door. Depending on your new cat’s personality, this adjustment period can take anywhere from one day to several weeks.

Of course, you can spend time with your cat in the isolation room, but your dog should stay outside. You may want to set up a wire dog playpen gate on both sides of the door so you can get in and out more safely, or close your dog in another room away from the isolation room’s door, so if your cat slips out, it’s not right into your pup.

Why is it essential to separate spaces initially?

There are a few reasons it’s essential to initially separate your cat and dog. First, as mentioned above, you want to give your new pet the space to adjust to their new environment. You also want to give both pets a chance to get used to each other’s presence without being in a confined space together and ensure they will both be safe around the other.

Step 2: Feed them on opposite sides of the door

Feed your cat and dog on opposite sides of a closed solid door (not glass, screen, or see-through) for one week. They will begin to associate each others’ presence (smell, sounds) with a pleasurable experience – eating. If your dog starts whining, pawing, or barking at the door, move the food bowls farther away. Keep your pup on a leash and gradually move their bowl closer to the cat’s door each feeding time.

Eventually, when both pets are eating calmly next to the door, expose them to each others’ scent more strongly by rubbing them with a towel (or a toy or their bed) and placing that down with the food bowl for them to smell as they eat.

How does exchanging scents help in the introduction process?

Exchanging scents gives each pet time to acclimate to the other’s scent, which can help them both adjust to having a new animal around. When giving each pet the item with the scent of the other, it’s helpful for pet parents to give that pet lots of praise, treats, and attention so that the pet associates that scent with a positive experience.

Step 3: Introduce your cat and dog through a barrier

This step allows your cat and dog to see each other without making any physical contact by putting your cat in a crate. Before you can do that, though, you’ll want them to get used to spending short periods of time in, ideally, a big wire crate. Many cats already associate a regular plastic pet carrier with scary things (vet visits, being abandoned at a shelter), so it can be worth investing in or borrowing a big wire dog crate. The bigger the crate, the better, but you should still be able to carry it.

Lure your cat into the crate by feeding them right outside the crate. Then, slowly move each meal farther back into the crate. Once they’re in the crate, shut the door for five minutes, then let them out. If your cat is nervous in the crate, practice this two to three times a day until they are relaxed.

If your cat refuses to go in the crate, you can crate your dog instead. However, there are several disadvantages, including the chances that your cat isn’t leash trained, which is necessary for the next step, and, in very rare cases, your cat might attack your dog in the crate, and cat paws and claws go right through most crate openings and can seriously hurt your dog. You’ll also have less control over your dog in the crate than when they’re leashed.

Step 4: Allow your dog into your cat’s room

Once your cat is in the crate, carry it into the biggest room in your house and place it as far away from the door that separates your dog from the room as possible. Put a leash and harness on your dog and bring them into the room where your cat is in the crate.

Have your dog “sit” and “stay” just inside the door, but where they can still see your cat. Have your dog practice sit, down, shake, and other commands for five minutes in that location.

You can allow your dog to sniff at the kennel and your cat as long as they are calm and listen to you if you say “sit” or “come.” Eventually, the animals should be brought close enough to allow them to investigate each other visually and calmly.

With each training session, allow them to get a little closer together. If your cat becomes frightened, or your dog starts ignoring you, increase the distance between the animals and progress more slowly. If everyone behaves, leave the room with lots of praise for everyone.

Increase the length of time together.

Once your pets can be in the same room together without tension for five minutes at a time, you can increase the length of their sessions together. If either pet is agitated in any way, you may have to spend as many days as necessary with the cat in the crate and dog on leash until they are calm and relaxed. You may find distracting yourself with a book or TV show will relax you, which will help them relax too.

Remember to breathe, think calm thoughts, and try to keep some slack on the leash. Pets respond to any tension they feel in you. It often helps to say things aloud in a pleasant tone.

What are the warning signs when introducing cats?

If your dog ignores your commands because they’re too interested in the cat, or barks, growls, or lunges, walk them out of the room. Get their attention outside again by practicing a few commands, then try entering the room again.

Repeat this step — with your dog still on leash and your cat still in the crate — for five minutes at a time, for as many days as you need to, until both pets can be in the same room without any warning signs such as:

Tension or stress (tucked ears, tucked tails, lip licking, panting)
Fear (avoiding eye contact, turning away, freezing)
Aggression
Vocalizing

If you’ve spent a week or more trying at least three sessions a day and your cat and dog are still acting aggressively or tense toward each other with no improvement, please consult a professional behaviorist or trainer. Staring is often a warning an animal is about to attack, so be careful if your dog or cat seems “calm” but is actually tense, stiff, and staring.

Step 5: Open your cat’s crate.

Eventually, the animals should be brought close enough together to allow them to investigate each other visually and calmly. Then you can allow your dog to sniff at the kennel and your cat, as long as they are being calm and listen to you if you say “sit” or “come.”

Once your pets have sniffed each other through the crate with no issues, and you can spend half an hour in the room with everyone relaxed right next to each other, you are ready to open the crate. With your dog on leash in a down-stay at the far side of the room, have a helper open the door of the crate. Keep your dog focused on you with training cues and treats.

If your cat stays in the crate, tempt them out by tossing a treat just outside the crate door. If they won’t come out, leave the room with your dog, wait for your cat to walk out of the crate, and come back in with your dog. Your cat may run and hide, but focus on keeping your dog in his down-stay. If your dog reacts to the cat walking or running, you’ll need to go back to doing the daily sessions in the previous step until they’re once again ignoring the cat while they are loose.

One thing you should never do: allow your dog to “play” by chasing your cat, ever. This “game” can turn deadly in an instant. Keep your dog on a leash when not separated entirely from your cat.

Step 6: Your cat and dog are loose together.

After two weeks of your dog hanging out with your cat and seeing them run, jump, and play — and both being relaxed around each other and mostly ignoring the other — you can drop your dog’s leash. Congratulations, you’ve successfully introduced your new cat to your dog.

Even after this final step, keep your cat and dog separated with a physical barrier (crate, door, etc) between them while you’re not home to be certain they will be safe for at least an additional month. With bigger or high prey-drive dog breeds, you may always want to keep them safely separated when you are not home.

Tips for making this process go smoothly

Reward positive behavior

Your dog must learn how to behave appropriately with your new cat, and be rewarded for doing so. If your dog is always punished whenever the cat is around, and never has “good things” happen in the cat’s presence, your dog may redirect aggression toward the cat.

Pheromones might help

“Pheromones are believed to change animals’ emotional processing, especially when conditions are stressful. It’s thought that they function differently than medications that reduce anxiety,” says London. One study on pheromones found that there were significant declines in reported problematic behaviors. “Households using a cat pheromone diffuser saw their cats become more relaxed, while households using a dog pheromone diffuser saw an increase in canine relaxation, as well an increase in friendly greetings and time spent by both the cat and the dog in the same room,” says London.

Seek professional help

Sometimes, even the most experienced pet parents cannot get their dog and cat to coexist peacefully. You may have a dog with a very high prey-drive or a cat who just does not like dogs no matter what. If the tips above do not work, it may be a good idea to consult a certified professional dog trainer, certified animal behavior consultant, certified applied animal behaviorist, or veterinary behaviorist. They can give you personalized tips to help your pets.

Can every cat and dog live successfully together?

If seeking out a professional does not help, you may feel helpless. Our experts at Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com have talked to hundreds of pet parents with very similar dilemmas and understand how difficult it can be to figure out the best course of action. In situations like this, it’s important to remember that pets are individuals, and not every cat or dog is meant to live with other pets. If you’re put in a situation where one pet is in danger or you feel having them live separately may be the best option for your family, Rehome can help.

Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet owners to post their pets on Adopt-a-Pet.com to be seen by millions of potential adopters. Rehome also provides pet owners with all of the tools they need to review applications and choose the right new family for their pets. While we hope proper socialization and behavior training for your pet will help you to stay together, Rehome is the safe, reliable, and free way to find another great person or family to adopt your pet if all else fails. Get started with Rehome here.

FAQ (People Also Ask):

What should you not do when introducing a cat to a dog?

Never allow your dog to “play” by chasing your new cat. This “game” can turn deadly in an instant. Keep your dog on a leash when not separated from your cat.

How long does it take for a new cat to get used to a dog?

This method can take one week or months, depending on the pets being introduced but it’s worth it for everyone’s safety and stress levels (including yours).

Can every cat and dog successfully live together?

Pets are individuals, and not every pet is meant to live with other pets. If one pet is in danger or having them live separately is the best option, Rehome can help.

Why is it essential to separate spaces initially?

Separating spaces initially allows your new cat to adjust to your new home and keeps everyone involved safe.

What are the warning signs when introducing cats?

Warning signs when introducing cats and dogs include tension between the pets, as well as signs of fear, aggression, vocalizing, or any other undesired behavior.

Is it easy to introduce a cat to a dog?

Every pet is different, so the difficulty as well as the amount of time introducing a cat and dog takes depends on the animals involved.

How does exchanging scents help in the introduction process?

Exchanging scents helps your dog and cat to associate each others’ presence with pleasurable experiences, like eating, and familiarizes them with the other.

References:

Animal Humane: How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat

Introducing New Cat to Home

Whole Dog Journal: Dogs and Cats Get Along Together

Introduce Dog to Resident Cat

Separation Anxiety In Dogs: How To Stop Dog Barking When Left Alone?

Does your dog experience separation anxiety? Explore helpful techniques to comfort and entertain your dogs while they’re home alone.

woman comforts dog with separation anxiety
Samson Katt / Pexels
Separation anxiety in dogs takes many forms and has many different levels of intensity, but one of the most obvious signs is a dog crying, howling, barking, or otherwise vocalizing when left alone. Your canine crooner may not be hurting themself or anyone (or anything!) with this behavior, but unless you live in a soundproof studio or way out in the country, dogs howling can certainly cause problems with your neighbors. Also, it is a very audible communication from your dog to you, or whoever might be within earshot, that they’re unhappy.

Your dog may have felt abandoned before, and if they’re not well-balanced through training, routine, and exercise, losing their protector can feel unbearable. The good news is there are things you can try to reduce and eliminate separation anxiety when left alone.

What causes separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences fear or panic when left alone, either after a specific person leaves or if they’re totally alone. “Dogs are social creatures, they want to be with their people, and they do not want to be alone,” says dog trainer Julie Chang, PhD, CTC of The Life of Kai. “Sometimes, separation anxiety can be managed using different strategies. They can be taught to feel okay when being alone.”

Some newly adopted dogs may vocalize when they are first left alone as they are still getting used to their new home. Even dogs you’ve had for a while can be upset by changes in their routine, such as your work hours changing, a new roommate, etc., which can lead to separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety in dogs vs. just boredom — what’s the difference?

Dogs experiencing separation anxiety tend to exhibit more severe behaviors than dogs who are just bored or frustrated. Bored dogs may alternate between barking, sleeping, chewing, or becoming mischievous when their parent is away, but dogs experiencing separation anxiety will really freak out because they are overwhelmed by fear. “Frustrated or bored dogs are typically less persistent when expressing the behaviors whereas a fearful and anxious dog is not as logical; they can vocalize for hours,” says Chang.

Can puppies have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is not just an adult thing. Puppies can get separation anxiety, too. “Bad early life experiences can create fear even in puppies. Many assume that puppies are too young to have bad experiences,” says Chang. “Remember that fear can derive from maternal experiences while [in the womb] or early bad experiences that happen with a litter if mom was unable to care for them, or they were hungry because mom was not healthy. We often see this with pregnant, reduced stray mamas.”

But not all puppies who chew on table legs or howl when you leave are experiencing separation anxiety. While it is true that puppies can develop separation anxiety, younger dogs are more likely to feel frustrated than anxious.

What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs?

Common symptoms of anxiety in dogs include drooling, hiding, shaking, panting, excess energy, aggression, and destruction. Humans can also notice signs before they leave, including pacing, panting, pulling their ears back, following you around, hiding, or refusing food.

The most obvious sign — and one that can potentially be the most problematic for everyone involved — is crying or excessive barking when you leave. Dogs cry or whine for a number of reasons, but in this case, they’re generally expressing their uncertainty and anxiety.

How to train dogs with separation anxiety

You can help alleviate your dog’s separation anxiety with training, specifically through desensitization. When desensitizing a dog, the idea is to help your dog understand that nothing bad happens when they’re alone. When desensitizing your dog through training, go at your dog’s pace by doing short incremental training sessions. “It’s recommended that you work on home-alone training four to five times a week. The training starts with the duration the dog can be alone without stress,” says Chang. For some dogs, that duration is five seconds. For others, it might only be three — it is individual to the dog.

The length of the training program required to help them overcome their separation anxiety varies depending on the individual dog too. “The recommended training time is usually eight weeks. The goal is for the dog to be alone at least for 15 minutes, but for some dogs, eight weeks is not enough.”

Chang recommends investing in an indoor video camera before getting started. It will allow you to monitor your dog to ensure you return before they exhibit any non-audible feelings of anxiety, such as shadowing and pacing. Here’s a rough outline of how to get started:

1. Before training, find the starting point.

You’ll need to determine when your dog begins to freak out about the idea of you leaving. Do they panic when you grab your keys? When you crack the door? Can you go out the door for five seconds or only two? You get the idea. Other potential triggers include taking a shower, making coffee, and putting on shoes. Keep track of this information in a journal to record your dog’s progress.

2. Begin desensitizing your pup.

Work with your dog several times a week to help build their tolerance while also keeping them calm and comfortable. If your dog can remain calm while you walk up to your door, as long as you don’t touch it, then practice that. “If keys are a departure cue, we advise the pet parents to go ahead and put keys in their pocket hours before they know they have to leave. It’s just one less thing to desensitize,” says Chang. “Touching the doorknob, however, cannot be minimized. So we have them work on the doorknob and just pocket the keys.”

Work at your dog’s pace making only incremental adjustments. Eventually, you’ll work on touching but not turning the doorknob, and so forth. Keep it positive. Wait one to two minutes between each training session.

3. Build their alone-time tolerance.

As your dog gets better at handling your typical routine, mix it up. Try doing things in a different order or for different durations, but again, keep it positive. Here’s an example:

Only go down the hallway to your front door or down the driveway, then come back.
Then go down the hallway or block, wait five minutes, and come back.
Then, actually leave.

Other Ways to Help Dogs With Separation Anxiety

Keep Greetings Calm

When you are getting ready to leave, gather up your things and leave as if you are coming right back. Skip hugs, kisses, or dramatic farewells. Don’t say “Goodbye, sweetie pie!” This just gives your dog a huge alert that you’re leaving.

Follow the same low-key routine when you return. This is the hardest for humans, but ignore any attention-seeking behavior, such as jumping or going crazy, and only reward your dog with calm love and affection when they are calm for at least five minutes after you’ve come home. You can take them outside immediately if they have to go potty but do so calmly without fanfare, as you’d do if you’d been home already.

Build a Support Network

For some dogs, being around others can help reduce their anxiousness. Doggie daycare can be a daily or occasional way for dogs who enjoy playing with other dogs to get lots of exercise and be happier and less anxious on days when their humans can’t be home with them.

“If pet parents have limited time, they can get the dog to daycare or build a small circle of friends and family to help watch the dog when they cannot,” says Chang. Daily dog walkers or sitters can also add just enough extra exercise and attention into your dog’s routine to alleviate crying when left alone.

Seek Professional Help

When it comes to addressing separation anxiety, positive reinforcement training is crucial. A certified trainer with appropriate credentials can teach you the tools to help your dog cope with separation anxiety. But because of the nature of separation anxiety, professional training can take a long time and be expensive. Expect to pay between $1500 and $2000 for a typical eight-week session. Some trainers, such as Julie Naismith and Malena DeMartini, offer an a la carte approach to separation anxiety training by providing pet parents the ability to connect with a separation anxiety specialist at an easier-to-swallow price.

Try Medications For Anxiety

If all else fails, you can visit your vet to discuss your dog’s behavior. There are a few medications for dogs with separation anxiety, such as Alprazolam or Clomicalm, that your vet can prescribe that may help either relieve anxiety or sedate your dog. For many dogs, medication and training go hand in hand.

“Sometimes medications have to be added to the regimen and may take at least two months to have an effect. During those months, [separation anxiety] training may need to be modified,” says Chang.

You can also try natural anxiety remedies, including experimenting with calming products like calming collars, shirts, and diffusers, but the efficacy of many of these products is anecdotal. Probiotic supplements, available through veterinarians, can also help dogs maintain positive cardiac activity during stressful events, promoting a positive emotional state. It may take up to six weeks to see results, so give yourself plenty of lead time.

What if none of this works?

What if you sought out a professional and it did not help, or you are unable to make the investment in helping your pup with their separation anxiety? If you’ve realized your dog’s anxiety is not improving or they are under a great deal of stress, rehoming your dog to a family that can better address these needs may be a very kind and responsible choice.

Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet parents to post their pets on adoptapet.com to be seen by millions of potential adopters. If you’re in the difficult position of considering whether to rehome your dog, it’s important to take an honest look at the situation and do your homework. Rehome can help make the process easy and as safe as possible. When you’ve done all you can, it’s important to remember that pets are individuals, and sometimes your home might not be the right fit.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

How long can dogs be left alone?

Adult dogs can generally be left for four to six hours a day, while puppies between three and six months should not be left alone for longer than their age in months.

How can I help my dog stop crying when I leave?

If your dog is bored, playing the radio or TV, giving them food puzzles, and crate training may help. For dogs with separation anxiety, desensitization training can help reduce their fear and improve their behavior.

How long does it take for a dog to overcome separation anxiety?

Every dog is different, and with training and other methods of intervention, some dogs overcome their separation anxiety in weeks while others take months or even years.

What are some home remedies for separation anxiety in dogs?

The best home remedy for separation anxiety in dogs is training. Training your dog to be less fearful when alone can help reduce crying and problematic behaviors.

What is the fastest way to cure separation anxiety in dogs?

There is no fast way to cure separation anxiety in dogs. Every dog is different, and helping them overcome their fear takes time. Do not rush training, work at your dog’s individual pace.

Do dogs eventually get over separation anxiety?

With training and other methods of intervention, many dogs overcome separation anxiety, but they’ll need the help and guidance of someone they trust.

References:

Risk factors and behaviors associated with separation anxiety in dogs

Relationship between attachment to owners and separation anxiety in pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

Evaluation of treatments for separation anxiety in dogs

Treatment of separation anxiety in dogs with clomipramine: results from a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter clinical trial

Canine separation anxiety: strategies for treatment and management

Separation Anxiety and Dog Boredom

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in June 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

Zoetis Apoquel® Grants for Shelters

Zoetis is celebrating 10 years of Apoquel (oclacitinib tablet) and dermatology excellence this month! To commemorate the milestone, Zoetis is donating Apoquel to 10 pet shelters and rescues across the U.S., to each treat ~100 dogs in their care. Click the link below for the full grant eligibility requirements, including that organizations must be enrolled in Zoetis For Shelters by June 23, 2023.
https://www.adoptapet.com/blog/apoquel-grants-for-shelters/

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QR codes to increase adoptions and…

You probably know that QR codes are unique black and white square matrix barcode images, like the one you see above. Check out these suggestions on how to generate and use them to increase your adoptions and more!

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A message from our friends at Nationwide

Pup-pare pets for work

National Take Your Dog to Work Day is June 23, and it’s not just another day in the paw-ffice when pet’s are by your side. Here are some tips for adopters to set their four-legged assistants up for a successful day.
Learn more

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Tip: Assess Your Community’s Virtual Equity

Sharing from AAWA: “Are your employment, adoptions & volunteer applications online only? What about post-adoption resources, or info about where to go for low-cost services? It’s easy to assume that everyone has access to the Internet—and to assume that’s how they want to access your services—but have you tested those assumptions?”
Assess Virtual Equity

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

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How To Introduce A Kitten To A New Home

In the process of adopting a new kitten? Learn more about how you should introduce your adopted firend to their new home.

woman pets new cat in brightly lit room
Sasha Kim/Pexels
Congratulations! You are the proud new parent of an adopted cat or kitten (or are just about to become one) and are looking for advice on how to ease your feline friend into their new home. Good news: You can do lots to help your new housemate adjust with the help of our guidelines below.

How to prepare for a new cat or kitten

This new cat checklist is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to do when welcoming a new cat (or kitten) into your home.

1. Cat-proof your place

One of the first things you should do when bringing home a new cat is cat-proof your house and be aware of common household hazards, including keeping breakable objects out of reach, covering electric cords, cables, and phone chargers, tossing or giving away toxic plants (which you can learn more about here), putting away household cleaners, and hiding sharp objects.

2. Contact a veterinarian

You can also prepare for a new cat or kitten by scheduling a trip to the veterinarian. Kittens and cats alike should see a vet within the first week of coming to their new home as they will likely need some vital vaccines, such as those that protect against feline herpes virus, feline leukemia, rabies, and other diseases. Kittens are also particularly vulnerable to parasites, so may need regular fecal exams and deworming. They should also be spayed or neutered if old enough.

3. Plan for a safe ride home

One of the most important things to remember is that it’s completely normal for a cat to be scared when they enter your home, especially after a car trip. Unlike dogs, most cats do not enjoy traveling in a car, so do not leave them loose or try to hold them in your lap or on the seat next to you when bringing them home. They might panic and cause an accident or try to hide and get stuck under a seat. In a car, it is safest for them to secure them in a cat carrier lined with an easily washable towel or a few sheets of newspaper. They may complain by meowing (some more loudly than others), but some cats relax with soothing music or if you sing along.

4. Create a quiet spot

Once home, it can take days or weeks for them to adjust to their new environment; Let them adjust at their own pace. You can make your new cat’s transition to your household as comfortable as possible by selecting a quiet, closed-in area, such as your bedroom or a small room away from the main foot traffic, and set it up with everything they’ll need, including a litter box, bed, scratching post, toys, food, and water. Be sure that this “starter room” has very secure window screens — even if they’re quite happy in their new homes, new kitties can pull off a window screen (often seemingly miraculously) and take off. The escapee is then disoriented and can very likely become lost and injured.

5. Prep the litter box

If possible, make the starter room the permanent location of the litter box. If you plan on moving the litter box after bringing home your new cat, you’ll need two litter boxes; keep the first litter box in the starter room and put a new litter box in the new location. Once the cat is using the new litter box, you can slowly move the first litter box closer and closer to the new one. When they are next to each other, remove one box.

Once your kitty has adjusted and seems relaxed and happy in their starter room, you can open the door and let them explore the rest of your home for the first time. If you have other pets, though, see the section below about introducing your pets.

Introducing your cat to their new home

Even the friendliest cats often need a few days to feel safe in a new environment, so if you have other pets, don’t introduce them to your new pet immediately. You can find more detailed instructions for introducing your new cat or kitten to resident cats here, but there are a few essential things to know.

Keep pets separated in their own room
Shelter/rescue cats should wait 14 days to prevent disease
Connect with your cat one on one first
Give them plenty of time to adjust to new sights and smells
Initial introductions between pets should be done through a barrier
Supervise all interactions between pets
It’s best to keep your new cat indoors

First, as mentioned above, keep your new pet totally separated in their own room. For multi-cat households, when your new cat or kitten is from a shelter, rescue, or kennel, this separation period should be 14 days to prevent spreading contagious diseases during their incubation period. Before making any pet introductions, let the new cat get to know and trust you, and let your other pets discover they are still loved — although they smell a new furry one in the house, they are not going to lose their home and family.

Allow your pets lots of time to sniff under the door to the new pet’s starter room. You can try switching rooms for a while and let the new cat explore the house while your current pet sniffs around the room.

As they progress, you can introduce them at a distance. For example, you can place a baby gate across the doorway of the safe room and open the door for an initial greeting. Once your pets can do this calmly, you’ll be able to let them interact in the same space, but you’ll want to micromanage these interactions and keep food and litter box areas separate.

Keep cats indoors for safety

It’s also best to keep your new cat indoors. Despite stories about cats finding their way home from far distances, in reality, your new cat is very likely to become lost. Young kittens should be kept indoors until they are fully grown (12 months), but if your new adult cat will be free roaming, wait at least four weeks before allowing your adult cat to go outside to give them a chance to bond to your family. Do consider the advantages of keeping your new cat indoors always — outdoor cats are exposed to disease, cat fights, dogs, and other wild animals, and are more likely to be hit by cars.

If your adult cat must go outside, consider a cat-escape-proof enclosure to keep your cat contained and predators out — like a catio. An enclosure with a top will protect your cat from flying predators and those that can climb and jump like coyotes. Adding a cat-proof fence (like one with an angled-in topper or smooth vinyl over seven feet high) offers some protection too. Bringing your cat inside at night may also reduce the risk of them being killed by predators. To train your cat to come in at night, set their daily feeding time to be at the hour when you want them to come inside for the night. You can reinforce coming in with treats as well.

What should you expect? The adjusting period

Patience is the name of the game when helping your new cat adjust to your home.

Is your new cat not eating?

Even when you give your new cat space in their starter room, they commonly refuse to eat in new environments due to stress. Change is hard, not only in an environment but also in a diet — you may be feeding your new cat food different than what they got in a shelter or, if they were a stray, they may not be used to cat food at all. To help your new cat transition, offer food only at set meal times. You can also add cat food toppers or try different feeding set-ups (like a plate on the counter) to entice your cat to eat. If your cat has gone two to three days without eating, you should see a veterinarian. For kittens, the timeline is shorter — they should see a vet if they haven’t eaten in 24 hours.

Is your new cat hiding?

Your new cat may also hide at first; hiding is a normal reaction for a cat to have to an unfamiliar environment. You can help your cat by providing a cat carrier, tunnel, covered cat bed, or other safe places for your new friend to hide. Keep their resources, including a litter box, food, and water, close to that spot until they’re more comfortable coming out.

Are they taking too long to adjust?

It will take time for a new cat and any resident pets to adjust to their new situation. It could take several weeks to several months — every cat is different. Tempting though it may be, rushing this process can be a mistake. The slow approach is worth the extra time and will allow you to ensure your pets are all happy and comfortable in your home.

If you bring home a kitten and have an older cat at home, you may want to take some extra care in making these introductions. For example, a kitten will have far more energy than your older cat, so you’ll want to play with the kitten more so they don’t bother your older cat.

Soon, you should see signs that your new cat is adjusting to your home, including an increased appetite, playfulness, and a calmer demeanor (which can sometimes mean less meowing). You can also keep an eye out for body language that indicates they’re happy and relaxed, like a flat back, their head held high, soft lips, and their ears up. They may knead their paws and have their whiskers forward. Purring is also a very good indicator that your new cat is happy and settling into your home.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What should you do when first bringing home a new cat?

Check out our New Cat Checklist for a comprehensive guide to everything you need to do when welcoming a new cat into your home.

What should I feed my new cat Or kitten?

Kittens should eat wet kitten food at first, then transition to solid food. You can learn more about cat nutrition here.

When should I schedule my new cat or kitten’s first veterinary visit?

Kittens and cats should see a vet within the first week of coming to their new home, as they will likely need vaccines and could need other treatments.

How do I introduce my new cat or kitten to existing pets?

You can introduce your new cat or kitten to resident pets at a distance. For example, place a baby gate across the doorway of the safe room and open the door.

What are some common household hazards I should be aware of when bringing a cat home?

Common household hazards include breakable objects, electric cords, cables and phone chargers, toxic plants, household cleaners, and sharp objects.

Can I let my new cat outside?

Don’t let your new cat go outside when you first bring them home. Young kittens should be kept indoors at least until they are full-grown (around 12 months).

References

Intercat aggression in households following the introduction of a new cat

The Social Cat – Who to Adopt, How to Introduce Cats to Prevent Disaster

Determinants of Cat Choice and Outcomes for Adult Cats and Kittens Adopted from an Australian Animal Shelter

The Taming of the Cat

Targeting care for senior cats and their caretakers

Apoquel® Grants for Shelters

Grant eligibility requirements below.

Organization must:

Be enrolled in Zoetis For Shelters by June 23, 2023
Have an intake of at least 100 dogs annually
Have a veterinarian of record in the same state as the shelter
Be a §501(c)(3) organization or government non-profit

If not already enrolled in Zoetis For Shelters, qualifying organizations can enroll here. No further application is required to be considered for the grant. Selected organizations will be announced in early August, as part of #ItchyPetAwarenessMonth. Visit itchingforhelp.com for more information about canine allergic itch, including a quiz to learn more about treatment options that are right for the dogs in your care.

About Apoquel – IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

For more information, please see the full Apoquel prescribing information.

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in May 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

Zoetis Launches Apoquel® Grants for Shelters

Zoetis is celebrating 10 years of Apoquel (oclacitinib tablet) and dermatology excellence this month! To commemorate the milestone, Zoetis is donating Apoquel to 10 pet shelters and rescues across the U.S., to each treat ~100 dogs in their care.
Enroll now at https://www.adoptapet.com/blog/apoquel-grants-for-shelters/

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Follow our Facebook Pro page

Our What’s New email is only once a month, and there’s so much more going on that we want to share with you, including grant programs, webinars and more from our friends. After you “Like” our Facebook Pro page, to see us in your newsfeed, adjust your “Follow” settings by clicking on our Like button again.
Adopt a Pet Pro on Facebook
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The Solutions Summit 2023

Don’t miss a day of addressing the animal welfare profession’s most pressing challenges (plus yoga and networking!). Attend The Solutions Summit online on June 13.
Register Here
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A message from our friends at Nationwide

Keeping Pets and Pet Parents Stress Free

Companion animals contribute to our mental health and well-being in so many ways. They keep us active and help us cope with life’s stresses, but financial uncertainty is often a common source of stress for pet parents. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind for the unexpected. Nationwide offers reimbursement for a variety of eligible veterinary bills for your adopters.
Learn more
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4 Tips for Applying DEI to Your Daily Work

Sharing this item from AAWA: “This work is not easy,” writes Jasmin Robinson, The Association’s Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives. “I always hear people share concerns about ‘getting it wrong’ or saying the wrong thing.” Read their suggestions for moving past that.
4 Tips for Applying DEI

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
Scammers try to get your password: Read security tips

Free downloads to share with your community:

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in April 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

It’s No Secret… It’s Kitten Season

Kitten Season. Cute, but often overwhelming. We hear a big kitten influx is anticipated, so get ready and download our free If You Find Baby Kittens PDF to share with your community. Also check out the Kitten Resources library from Maddie’s Fund with videos on foster recruitment, marketing guides, and more.

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Free Roundtable Webinar

Join this live web event on 04/11/2023 at 4:00 PM (EDT) with Adopt a Pet’s very own April Huntsman as one of the panelists! Researchers at University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School studied the relationship between dog breed and behavior. Using their research as a kickoff point, a panel of experts will discuss the realities of identifying dog breeds, the expectations these IDs cause shelter staff and adopters to have, and implications for behavior, training, and legislation. Set up a free account with The Association to register for this event. Learn More

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A message from our friends at Nationwide

Watch Out for These Common Pet Poisons

Sometimes the things we do to take care of ourselves can actually harm pets. Arm your adopter with these useful tips from Nationwide. Learn more
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Get featured on Adopt a Pet social

Adopt a Pet wants our Instagram followers to get to know you. Got a great photo of a pet who needs a home? An amazing rescue story that should be shared? While we can’t feature every submission, don’t let that stop you – send us a DM on Instagram @AdoptaPetcom for a chance to be featured! (Pro tip: Instagram may require you to be logged in to see anything at that link.)

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
Scammers try to get your password: Read security tips

Free downloads to share with your community:

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in March 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

1-Minute Survey: Adoption Handouts?

We are designing fun educational handouts you can give to your adopters, to make your digital or printed adoption packet creation easier. Take our 1-minute survey (really, it’s that fast!) before March 31, 2023 to tell us which topics you’d like included.

Take Survey
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Canada’s Only Animal Welfare Conference

Humane Canada invites you to attend the Summit for Animals in Victoria, British Columbia, this spring. This annual conference brings together animal welfare professionals, advocates and volunteers to learn cutting-edge information from thought leaders in the sector while building long-lasting professional connections that will help advance your advocacy efforts to benefit animals and their welfare. There will be 50+ speakers, 30+ sessions, workshops and panels, a dozen exhibitors, and lots of fun!

Learn More
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A message from our friends at Zoetis

Don’t Leave Pet Safety to Luck

This month, pinch yourself and reflect on all the happiness pets bring. Then, take the time to ensure adopter homes are pet-safe for their furry lucky charms. Help adopters keep their pets safe with Zoetis’ free poison prevention guide.

Learn more
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Adopt a Pet has a New Look

We gave you a sneak peek in January with the badge design, and now the new look for Adopt a Pet has launched on many public-facing pages of our website! None of the functionality changed, but our user/adopter testing showed an increase in confidence in inquiring about pets for adoption. We know that many of you are struggling with a drop in adoptions. We hope this part of our ongoing upgrades will have noticeable positive impact on that for you. See what your pet pages look like from your Links to My Pet Listings.

Links to Your Pet Listings

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
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Free downloads to share with your community:

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in February 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

IMPORTANT: Dedicated Login

As part of ongoing website upgrades, our login systems are now separate. To access your Shelter/Rescue account, be sure to use the dedicated Shelter/Rescue “log in” — not our adopter or rehome sign in. You can find the Shelter/Rescue log in link at the bottom of adoptapet.com or bookmark your Admin Home www.adoptapet.com/shelter/welcome to get quickly to the right place!

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Survey for a chance at a $500 grant!

Our friends at Maddie’s Fund are looking to collect information on programs across the United States in this short survey. Your organization may have responded to this survey several years ago; their goal is to learn what has changed since then. By completing this survey, you could win one of ten $500 grants! The survey closes on March 20, 2023. Take survey here

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A message from our friends at Nationwide

Periodontitis: It’s a Meow-th full!

Did you know? By the age of 3, many cats have dental disease. The early signs include bad breath, yellow tartar buildup and red or swollen gums. Periodontitis and other common -yet painful- conditions often go unnoticed. Help your adopters spot the signs with this list of common cat ailments. Read more

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A message from our friends at Zoetis

Loving Dental Awareness Month

February is known more for a visit from Cupid than from the Tooth Fairy. As adopters snuggle up with their favorite furry Valentine, let them know they can kiss the dental worries goodbye by being proactive about their dental health. Learn more

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Rescue Dogs Can Now Be Fostered in the Metaverse

There’s a new place for dogs to be fostered – the Metaverse. Anyone who owns Metaverse property in Decentraland can now foster a real rescue dog on their virtual property as part of PEDIGREE® FOSTERVERSE™. Decentraland property owners can simply visit Fosterverse.com to select a real rescue dog from Adopt a Pet™ to foster, download their foster dog’s avatar, and upload the doggo to their Decentraland plot. The dogs can be adopted in real life by anyone who visits Decentraland. Learn more at PEDIGREE® FOSTERVERSE™

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving people at The Wildest and Elanco Animal Health for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
Scammers try to get your password: Read security tips

Free downloads to share with your community: