There is a problem that some owners of boy-dogs have, especially if there is more than one canine in the house. It's called 'marking'. This topic is one some people don't like to talk about because it is embarrassing. It is embarrassing to admit to yourself that you can't train it away. It is embarrassing to admit to others that your dog even has the problem, and it is embarrassing to ask people for advice. Actually you have probably trained your dog just fine to do his business outside. This isn't about doing business in the wrong place. It's about the male scenting his personal territory to warn other males. Watch carefully - when he wants to empty his bladder, he'll ask to go out. 'Marking' is putting a little urine in strategic places for its scent value. If he lives with one or more females, he may also mark each spot in the yard that they use, to let everyone know they are 'his girls.' Marking is what the male dog is doing when he makes you stop at every other tree on those walks in the park.

The stains on the carpets, drapes and furniture and the frustration at not being able to stop the behaviour can lead to anger with and rejection of the pet. Punishment is never the answer. You can destroy the relationship with the dog and be no farther ahead with the problem. So, where to go from here? Is neutering a solution? Some say yes, some say no. Neutering in itself is very important for the pet dog to prevent unwanted puppies, but not as a guaranteed cure for marking. Another home could be considered, but if he is still a loved family member, there are other solutions. Many dogs respond well to patient training and show great improvement if that training is done without force or punishment. However, training out an instinct cannot be counted on to be fully reliable. I have talked to trainers and to breeders of several other small breeds. They say this is a common problem, particularly in houses with more than one canine. The use of 'rompers' or 'pet panties' seem to be the method of choice. 'Pet panties' look like human toddler 'Pampers' and were designed for females in heat to keep the menstrual flow off the carpets.

I tried one on my boy, and watched him drop to the floor on his tummy and wiggle out of it in a few seconds. The basic idea seemed good, but it needed some changes in design. With a little experimenting, I came up with a one-piece suit. The dog can't wiggle out of it, and done in red plaid, it looks very nice. It can also hold a panty-liner if necessary. I've taken my Westie on hospital visits wearing the little suit, and had many complements on it - no one the wiser as to its true function. This does work as also attested to by a lovely 'Best-In-Show' Cocker Spaniel. The suit doesn't damage his show coat.

It can be made of 100% lightweight cotton or polyester-cotton. All colours of plaid look nice on any Westie's white coat. One metre (39.5 inches) of 112 cm (44 inches) wide fabric makes two suits.

Once made, and using a light pad placed in the appropriate position, put the garment on starting over the head first. Lift in the front foot, then the back foot, and put the tail in the hole. Fasten over the back. Go slowly at first, and give him treats. Once he is in, give him some more treats and let him get used to it for a few minutes. Then remove it. Some dogs don't care if it's on or off. Others may need a little time and practice to get used to it. In a few days you will have dry pads all the time, which tells you he won't mark while the suit is on.

Author: Anne Matheson
Originally published in the Westie News, Christmas 2003

Note: Those suits are available at Les P'tits Chéris .