Why Does My Dog Pee on My Bed?
Finding a puddle on your bed is hardly the bedtime story any dog parent dreams of. But before you assume your pup is staging a protest, let’s unpack the real reasons behind this soggy surprise—and how to stop it from becoming a repeat performance.
A little while back, Dexter — our Head of Product Testing and resident snuggle connoisseur — left us a surprise on the duvet. No illness, no drama, just a suspiciously damp patch and his signature guilty side-eye. As much as we adore him (and his habit of rearranging pillows), even the most charming dogs have their off moments. And let’s be honest — it’s never the cheap bedding, is it? Always the Egyptian cotton.
Why Is My Dog Peeing on My Bed?
Your dog may be peeing on your bed due to medical issues, anxiety, incomplete housetraining, or territorial marking. It’s often a sign of stress, illness, or confusion—not defiance. A vet check is the first step to rule out health problems before addressing behaviour.
1. Medical Matters
Health issues are often the first culprit. Conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, diabetes, kidney disease, or incontinence can lead to accidents—even in well-trained dogs. If your dog is suddenly peeing on your bed, a vet check is essential to rule out these possibilities.
2. Stress and Anxiety
Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. Changes such as moving house, new family members, or even a shift in your work schedule can cause anxiety. Your bed, rich with your scent, becomes a comforting spot, and peeing there might be your dog’s way of coping with stress or seeking reassurance.
3. Incomplete Housetraining
Especially common in puppies or recently adopted dogs, incomplete housetraining can lead to confusion about appropriate potty spots. If your dog hasn’t fully grasped the house rules, they might choose your bed as an alternative.
4. Submissive or Excitement Urination
Some dogs urinate when they’re overly excited or trying to show submission. This is often seen in puppies or timid dogs and can be triggered by greetings, playtime, or scolding.
5. Territorial Marking
Unneutered male dogs, in particular, might mark their territory by urinating on objects that carry strong human scents—like your bed. This behavior is about claiming ownership rather than a lapse in housetraining.
How to Stop the Bedwetting Behavior
Step 1: Visit the Vet
Before addressing behavioral aspects, ensure there’s no underlying medical issue. A thorough veterinary examination can identify or rule out health problems contributing to the behavior.
Step 2: Reinforce Housetraining
Revisit the basics of housetraining. Establish a consistent routine for bathroom breaks, reward appropriate elimination, and supervise your dog indoors to prevent accidents.
Step 3: Limit Bedroom Access
Until the issue is resolved, restrict your dog’s access to the bedroom. Use baby gates or keep the door closed to prevent unsupervised visits to your bed.
Step 4: Clean Thoroughly
Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove all traces of urine scent from your bedding and mattress. Dogs are likely to return to spots that smell like previous accidents.
Step 5: Address Anxiety
If stress or anxiety is the root cause, identify and mitigate triggers. Provide a safe, comfortable space for your dog, and consider calming aids or consult a professional trainer for behavior modification techniques.
How to Stop the Bedwetting Behavior
Step 1: Visit the Vet
Before addressing behavioral aspects, ensure there’s no underlying medical issue. A thorough veterinary examination can identify or rule out health problems contributing to the behavior.
Step 2: Reinforce Housetraining
Revisit the basics of housetraining. Establish a consistent routine for bathroom breaks, reward appropriate elimination, and supervise your dog indoors to prevent accidents.
Step 3: Limit Bedroom Access
Until the issue is resolved, restrict your dog’s access to the bedroom. Use baby gates or keep the door closed to prevent unsupervised visits to your bed.
Step 4: Clean Thoroughly
Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove all traces of urine scent from your bedding and mattress. Dogs are likely to return to spots that smell like previous accidents.
Step 5: Address Anxiety
If stress or anxiety is the root cause, identify and mitigate triggers. Provide a safe, comfortable space for your dog, and consider calming aids or consult a professional trainer for behavior modification techniques.
A Word from the (Actual) Expert
“Dogs don’t do revenge,” says canine behaviourist Sarah White. “When a dog pees on your bed, it’s not payback — it’s communication. They may be anxious, unwell, or confused. Our job is to listen, not scold.”
If your pup’s puddles seem sudden or out of character, it’s worth looking beyond the mess. A bit of compassion (and a good enzyme cleaner) can go a long way.
Breed or Age-Specific Notes – Some Dogs Just Can’t Hold It (And That’s OK)
Puppies, senior dogs, and certain small breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, or Yorkies are simply more prone to indoor accidents. Their tiny bladders or ageing bodies mean they may not always make it to the door in time — even if they mean to. It’s not rebellion, it’s biology. And part of being a dog parent means knowing when your child needs a little grace (and a little extra laundry detergent).
When Accidents Happen, Style Prevails
While discovering your dog has peed on your bed is frustrating, understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward resolution. With patience, consistency, and possibly professional guidance, you can help your dog overcome this behavior and restore harmony to your home.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary advice.
Additional Resources
For a comprehensive guide on understanding and managing your dog’s behavior, download our free Dog Behaviour Cheat Sheet.
Back to Cuddles, Not Puddles
If your pup’s been having a bit of a behavioural blip lately, you’re not alone. Whether it’s anxiety, stress or just too much excitement, the right routine — and the right gear — can help.
From calming walkies to confident toilet training, a well-fitted harness can work wonders (and look fabulous while doing it).
Explore our comfort-first step-in harnesses — designed for dogs who hate the faff of overhead fittings.
Complete the look with a matching lead or collar, and turn your next walk into a runway moment.
Share This Post
