Marking

[armauro]

Overnight my 13 month old gsd started marking like crazy- on a 1/2 hour walk- 30 times- no end- my previous male never did anything like this-
does this also mean he will become more territorial-

[JakodaCD OA]

he may have a UTI, Can you get a sample and have a vet check it out?

[Draugr]

Nope. Never been an issue with my dog (as far as "being territorial") and he marks like crazy outside.

Just means he is maturing and acting like a normal dog, smells are suddenly more interesting to him.

If you want to curb the behavior, it's going to be very difficult to do. It's impulsive and it happens VERY quick. You could try a misdirect if you are more toward the positive reinforcement end of things, or use a pinch collar or a shock collar if you're more inclined toward the negative reinforcement end of things. Or just what you think would work best in your dog's situation. I lean heavily toward positive reinforcement but there are certain things that I think work best with negative. Up to you. Whatever you do just be sure you research your options thoroughly.

You could try to neuter if it really bothers you that much but considering his age and the health risks associated with it I wouldn't. Regardless, once the marking has started, neutering usually has little to no effect (it's marginally effective in preventing the habit from forming in the first place). Heck, is he already neutered? Samson's best friend didn't start marking until after he was castrated.

[Castlemaid]

Gryffon started marking on walks when he ws around 9 months old. He is easy going and accepting of other dogs and people, and starting marking did not change that. Though if the marking does seem excessive, not a bad idea to have it checked out by a vet.

Both Keeta and Gryff would mark that much on walks if I let them, but it doesn't take much to set different expectations on a walk. No need for the heavy artillery (as suggested - ESPECIALLY on a 13 month old!)). Just no stopping and walking when you say so, with pee breaks when you allow it.

Also, in my opinion, neutering doesn't seem to make a difference in marking behavior (despite what my vets say). My first dog, a spaniel/retriever mix, was neutered and marked heavily. Keeta, a spayed female, marks like a male, lifting her leg, and Gryffon is intact, and marks on walks as much as I would let him.

[armauro]

He is not neutered- as of now very dog friendly and people friendly so far......will try to get urine sample on Monday for UTI.