Stop, sniff, stop, pee, repeat

Something for Everybody

Question:

My nephew and I both have large male dogs. I told him that when I take our 100# black Labrador for a walk, he sniffs, browses and ‘marks’ his territory. My nephew indicated that letting males do so ‘shortens’ their lifespan since they are under duress. I would think that fighting the urge to ‘go’ would be more of a negative effect than the natural urge to go, to sniff and mark things.

Dr. Nichol:

There is plenty of misinformation on canine behavior, in this example, involving the human frustration with our male dogs’ incessant sniffing, urine tagging, and dilly dallying. This is emblematic of the many of the ridiculous struggles in today’s world. All of us have quirks that might be annoying but could instead be regarded as just interesting.

Your point is well taken. Dogs are highly social creatures who absolutely must get off-territory at least a couple of times a day to read the bulletin boards and post a few messages. More than just marking and leaving a scent, researchers have found specialized glands between foot pads that secrete a pheromone-like substance. These semiochemicals are communications for the next dog who comes along, sort of a canine underground. Who knows what evil lurks? Revolution? I don’t think so.

The human on the other end of the leash has legitimate needs too, like enjoying an uninterrupted brisk walk. I advise devoting the first portion of each stroll to your dog’s needs and the second half to yours. Make it predictable by switching from canine to human priority at the same spot each time. After many repetitions your dog will associate this waypoint with deferring to you and simply following. This would be good time for the “Heel” command.

By allowing your Lab to have his needs met first he’ll be more relaxed and compliant during your portion of the outing. Don’t forget that what gets rewarded gets repeated. Catch him doing something right. Tell him he’s good when he behaves well and give him a pat on the head often.

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Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He provides consultations in-person and in groups by Zoom (drjeffnichol.com). Each week he shares a blog and a video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Sign up at no charge at drjeffnichol.com. Email pet behavior or physical questions to or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.