Dogs communicate in many ways, and sometimes that communication comes in the form of difficult or embarrassing behaviors like anxiety-driven or submissive urination. These issues are more common than many dog owners realize, and while they can be frustrating, they are not signs of a “bad dog.” Instead, they are a sign that your dog is stressed, overwhelmed, or lacking confidence. Blitz K9 Club would like to share how with the right support and professional dog training, most dogs can overcome these behaviors and develop healthier emotional responses.
Dog Anxiety
Just like humans, dogs experience anxiety. This stress can be triggered by many different situations, environments, or past experiences. An anxious dog may show signs such as trembling, pacing, whining, hiding, barking, destructive chewing, or clinginess. In some cases, anxiety leads to submissive urination.
Submissive Urination
Submissive urination happens when a dog pees involuntarily during moments of fear, excitement, or perceived intimidation. It’s not a house-training issue. Instead, it is an emotional response. You will typically see submissive urination during greetings, when you approach your dog, when they’re scolded, or when a stranger reaches out to pet them.
How Anxiety & Submissive Urination Are Connected
Anxiety and submissive urination often go hand-in-hand. A dog who feels insecure or overwhelmed may resort to submissive behaviors, urination being one of them. This is the dog’s way of saying: “Please don’t hurt me. I’m not a threat.” Addressing this behavior requires patience and positive reinforcement. And that’s where professional training becomes essential.
How Professional Dog Training Can Relieve Anxiety & Submissive Urination
Professional trainers use science-backed, humane methods to help dogs build confidence, reduce stress, and learn healthier responses to triggers. While every dog is unique. A professional trainer will assess what triggers your dog’s anxiety, whether submissive urination is fear-based or excitement-based. Understanding “why” the behavior happens is the first step toward fixing it.
Confidence-Building Exercises
Many anxious or submissive dogs lack self-assurance. Trainers use structured obedience, controlled socialization, interactive confidence-building activities or puzzle toys and enrichment games. These help the dog develop emotional resilience and trust in their environment.
Positive Reinforcement Training
Punishment worsens anxiety. That is why trainers rely on positive reinforcement that treats with praise. Depending on the dog’s calming verbal cues and rewards for calm, controlled behavior, the dog can overcome submissive urination. Positive reinforcement teaches dogs what to do instead of punishing them for what not to do.
Teaching Owners How to Respond Properly
Owner reactions play a big role in healing anxiety. Trainers will guide you on how to greet your dog calmly. They will also instruct you on how to avoid intimidating body language, the use of slow, gentle movements, how to reduce overstimulation and what behaviors to avoid reinforcing. Small adjustments at home make a big difference in progress.
When to Seek Professional Help
You should reach out to a professional trainer if your dog:
• Frequently urinates during greetings
• Seems nervous or anxious in everyday situations
• Has difficulty calming down
• Reacts fearfully toward people or pets
• Shuts down during interactions
• Has experienced trauma or inconsistent handling
The sooner you seek help, the faster your dog can recover.
Dog Obedience, Socialization & Behavioral Training in Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Pontiac, Commerce Township and other areas within an hour of our home base of Waterford, Michigan
Dog anxiety and submissive urination are not signs of disobedience it calls for understanding and the need for safety as well as support. With patience and the guidance of a professional dog trainer, your dog can gain confidence, learn appropriate behaviors, and feel secure in their home and relationships. For quality dog training services, contact Blitz K9 Club today.
