Why does my scared new dog pee when I go near her or pick her up?

Carly sure is a cutie! If you notice that she is urinating unconsciously, such as in her sleep or when in a deep state of relaxation, then I would recommend to have her seen by the veterinarian. Otherwise dogs will submissively urinate. Building her confidence through a training routine, keeping her on a routine every day and daily exercise that will tire her out are all things that can help. Additionally, try to keep the environment as calm and relaxed as possible. Playing classical music, and not creating a big excitement around coming or going can help her to feel more calm. You could also seek out the assistance of a professional trainer who can watch the behavior and give you further exercises to help her confidence. I hope this helps to point you in the right direction and please feel free to post any additional questions.

My heart hurts for this poor dog! It sounds like she is suffering from submissive urination, and this will take time and training to fix. Do not make a big deal when you come home. Come in quietly, greet Abby softly, and let her approach you. If you make a loud noise or rush right over to her, that can lead to the submissive urination. Don't comfort her when she cowers. While you think you are helping her, you are actually teaching her that it's ok to behave this way. Comforting her reinforces the behavior. When people come over, I'd put her in a crate. It needs to be big enough for her to stand up and turn around in. This will give her a safe space of her own. Don't let people approach the crate, give her space. Patience is key in dealing with these dogs, and losing your temper will make the problem worse. Speak to a vet about getting a referral to a professional behavioral expert to help with this problem. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

A good first step is to make sure Ruby is healthy with a vet check up and to make sure there isn't an illness causing her accidents. Some dogs are nervous urinators, and may do it as a form of "submission" where they indicate they are not going to harm the person. Your boyfriend may want to take things more slowly with Ruby and not pick her up when she is too excited. He can also offer her a treat every time she sees him to help build trust. As for the hiding after an accident in the house. It may be that Ruby knows she has done something unwanted, so is acting guilty to avoid punishment. Working on potty training as if she were a puppy again and rewarding greatly when she goes in the correct spot is best to encourage good behavior without fear of punishment.

It sounds like this could be submissive urination. It is a sign that Eclispe might be a little nervous or excited about you reaching down to pet her. Submissive urination is common in puppies and they often grow out of it as they age. When you’re petting Eclipse you should get down to her level and try to let her come to you - it’s important for you to not act too excited. This website has some more information: http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/submissive_urination.html

As with any symptom like this, and with any new pet, an initial exam with your vet to rule out health issues is a good first step. That said, submissive urination like this is very common in puppies or dogs that are unsure of the situation, and if Layla is still new to the home, this could be the case. It may resolve on its own after some time once she gets used to you and your routines. Maintaining a routine, staying calm, and interacting with Layla on easy to clean surfaces can help during the transition.

She could be urinating because she is excited to see you, or it could be submissive urination in that she is trying to show you she isn't a threat. The Humane Society has a good article that tells you how to train this behavior out of your dog, and I will include a link below to it to help you get her to stop this behavior: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/submissive_urination.html

Brownie is beautiful!! Submissive urination is a very common issue, especially with puppies. When approaching her avoid direct eye contact and remain very calm/casual, not using a high, excited voice etc. approaching brownie from the side rather than straight on can be helpful too, presenting the side of your body to her rather than standing over her. As soon as you get home calmly take her outside to potty without a lot of fanfare. Also work a lot on basic obedience like “sit”. That way you can re-direct her excited behavior to something you d like her to do when approached rather than getting overstimulated and urinating. Good luck!! This is a behavior problem you can make a lot of progress with!