Yes, submissive urination typically resolves as dogs mature, gain confidence, and become comfortable in their environment, often by 12–24 months of age.
How long does submissive urination last in dogs?
Submissive urination usually resolves on its own by 12–24 months of age, depending on the dog’s breed, temperament, and training.
Most pups outgrow it without any help, but some stay anxious and keep doing it. According to the ASPCA, steady training and a calm home can speed things up. Young dogs and teens act this way more often because they're still finding their confidence.
Does submissive urination go away?
Yes, submissive urination typically goes away as dogs mature and gain confidence, especially if their environment is stable and supportive.
Both male and female dogs may show this behavior, especially in their first year. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says most dogs just grow out of it. If it drags on past 24 months or gets worse, though, check with a vet or certified trainer—something deeper might be going on. You can also learn more about what a submissive person means to better understand your dog’s behavior.
How do I help my submissive dog gain confidence?
Help your dog gain confidence through positive reinforcement training, socialization, and structured activities like obedience or canine sports.
- Obedience Training: Use reward-based training to build trust and reinforce calm behavior.
- Socialization: Gradually expose your dog to new people, dogs, and environments to reduce fear-based reactions.
- Canine Sports: Engage your dog in activities like agility or scent work to boost confidence and mental stimulation.
- Counter-Conditioning: Pair scary situations with treats or praise to change your dog’s emotional response.
The ASPCA warns against punishment—it can backfire and make anxiety (and submissive peeing) worse. For more guidance, explore how to stop submissive peeing in dogs.
What causes submissive peeing in dogs?
Submissive urination is an instinctive, uncontrollable response triggered by perceived intimidation or fear, often from humans or other dogs.
It’s not a potty-training problem—it’s a sign of deference, usually when dogs have full bladders or face overwhelming situations. According to the VCA Hospitals, sensitive breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or German Shepherds seem more prone to it. Spotting and reducing triggers helps cut down on accidents. If your dog’s anxiety seems tied to deeper issues, consider whether anxiety could be causing frequent urination.
Do puppies grow out of submissive behavior?
Many puppies grow out of submissive behavior by 12–18 months of age as they mature and gain confidence.
But if it sticks around or gets worse, it might point to deeper anxiety or not enough socialization early on. The AKC suggests early socialization and positive reinforcement to keep problems from lasting. Puppies raised in chaotic or punitive homes often carry submissive habits into adulthood. For dogs that don’t outgrow it, adult dogs can stop submissive urination with the right approach.
Does neutering help with excited peeing?
Neutering can reduce or stop urine marking in up to 50–60% of male dogs, but it may not eliminate submissive urination entirely.
If the habit’s already set, neutering alone won’t fix it. The ASPCA suggests pairing neutering with training and environmental tweaks for the best shot. Female dogs can mark too, and spaying may ease hormonal triggers.
What age does submissive urination stop?
Submissive urination typically stops by 12–24 months of age, though some dogs may retain it longer if unresolved.
Tiny breeds and super-sensitive dogs often take longer to outgrow it. The VCA Hospitals stress that patience and consistency matter most. If it’s still happening after 24 months, a veterinary behaviorist can dig into possible causes.
Should I pee on my dog to show dominance?
No, urinating on your dog or using other dominance-based tactics is ineffective and harmful to your relationship.
Old-school “alpha” intimidation tricks like the “alpha roll” have been proven useless by science. The ASPCA says these methods can actually crank up fear and aggression. Build trust instead with positive reinforcement and clear communication.
Can a submissive dog become aggressive?
Yes, if a submissive dog’s signals are repeatedly ignored or misinterpreted, they may escalate to aggression as a last resort.
Dogs speak volumes with body language—lowered heads, averted eyes, the works. Ignore those cues too often, and a dog can feel backed into a corner. That’s when growling or snapping might appear. The AKC urges owners to learn canine body language so these moments never escalate.
Are submissive dogs protective?
Submissive dogs are more likely to follow commands but can still act protectively in emergencies, especially when bonded closely to their family.
They rarely play the role of a tough guard dog, but submissive pups often put their family’s safety first. The ASPCA notes that any dog—no matter the temperament—may step up when the pack is threatened. Their response just tends to be less in-your-face than a dominant dog’s would be.
Do dogs stop peeing after being neutered?
Neutering reduces urine marking in 50–60% of male dogs, but it does not guarantee an end to submissive urination.
If marking keeps happening, it might be a learned habit or lingering anxiety. The AKC suggests pairing neutering with training and home adjustments for the best outcome. Female dogs can mark too, and spaying may dial down hormonal influences. Always loop in your vet to rule out medical causes first.
David Okonkwo holds a PhD in Computer Science and has been reviewing tech products and research tools for over 8 years. He's the person his entire department calls when their software breaks, and he's surprisingly okay with that.