Dear Cesar,

My daughter has a ten-month-old black cocker spaniel. She has a submissive urination problem, like all female cocker spaniels. My own cocker spaniel has outgrown this problem. However, my daughter's cocker is getting worse. She has a six-year-old boy and four-year-old girl and a four-year-old viszla. My daughter's cocker Ginny is now urinating in her crate. She urinates if you talk to her, if the kids play with her, and even if her husband reaches down to pet her. My daughter has tried everything and is ready to get rid of the puppy.

HELP! Do you have any advice on what to do???

Thank you,

Fran Petersen

Dear Fran:

It's a common habit to blame a dog's troublesome behaviors on its "breed", but this is something that I personally disagree with. You say that "all female cockers" have submissive urination problems, but I know of many cocker spaniels who don’t urinate when submitting, or when called to be in a submissive position. Conversely, I've experienced a multitude of other full and mixed breeds - small and large - that do exhibit this particular problem! Be careful about writing a dog off because it's got a reputation as a "problem breed." I believe there are no problem breeds, only problem owners.

Now, getting back to Ginny. It sounds to me that she may be easily excitable. If so, talking to her and petting her when she is in an unstable, excited state is not recommended. It only nurtures the unwanted behavior. What she may need is to release her pent-up energy, then return to a quiet, safe space. My first recommendation is to take Ginny out on walks more frequently. I also strongly suggest your daughter make an appointment with her vet to see if there are any health issues, such as a bladder or kidney infection. If Ginny's health checks out, then I'd advise you contact a qualified dog trainer who can help your daughter with Ginny's potty training, and to help Ginny learn the rules, boundaries, and limitations of your daughter's home. Best of luck!

Stay calm and assertive,

Cesar Millan