Dog Marking Territory
Marking, which usually takes the form of urination, is a dog’s way od laying claim to territory. By urinating on certain spots, whether rocks, flowers, sign posts or fire hydrants, dogs delineate an area ythey consider their own. The scent of urine sends a clear signal to other dogs that they are encroaching on another’s turf. Dogs also mark terrain with feces or anal gland secreions or by scratching, since the paws emit an odor through their sweat glands. Unneutered males mark more than females.
Dogs’ preference for marking vertical objects such as hydrants, trees and signposts is due to the fdfact that scent lasts longer when it is not left on the ground, where it can be diluted by the tread of feet. Dogs will mark the same spot repeatedly over time to keep the scent fresh. marked areas can range in size from one bush in many square miles.