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Why is my dog marking indoors after a loss? Grief or medical?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 14 lbs

We recently put our dog down and she left behind a brother whom she has been with since womb. He seemed fine at first but now is marking in the house daily even with access to a dog door. Is this a sign of grief?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2017

Hello, sorry to hear about Doby. Dogs can definitely experience grief and this may be associated with new behaviors including the marking. However, there are other medical conditions that could be causing him to pee inside the cause. This could be associated with a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or even a mass in his bladder. In a male dog, you may see inflammation or infection of the prostate which may also increase urgency to urinate. Finally, other metabolic diseases such as Cushings or Diabetes may cause increase drinking and urinations. Doby should have a full thorough physical exam to rule out other causes of increased urinations and urinating indoors. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I’m so sorry for your loss! Doby’s symptoms could indeed be from stress associated with grieving, but they could also be due to a urinary tract infection, crystals in the urine, stones in the urinary tract, a mass, or toxin ingestion. It is important that you have Doby seen by a veterinarian to help determine the cause of the signs and to start treatment. If you notice him straining to urinate/unable to produce urine, this is a medical emergency and can be life threatening, so he should be seen by a vet immediately. He may be avoiding going outside due to pain/discomfort associated with urinating, or he may be unable to go, indicating a potential emergency situation. If medical causes are ruled out, try Adaptil, a calming pheromone that may help him feel better http://adaptildogs.com/ . Also speak to a trainer who uses positive reinforcement or a veterinary behaviourist if the behaviour continues. Good luck!

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