Why Do Dogs Sniff Other Dogs' Pee? And Pee in the Same Spot?
Updated: Nov 1
You're trying to get on with your walk, and your dog is glued to a lamppost, nose down, reading every last detail like it's the morning paper. Then they lift a leg on exactly the same spot. I know it can be frustrating when you're cold and want to get home, but for your dog this is one of the most important parts of the walk.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Dogs sniff other dogs' pee because it's full of information. From one sniff, they can pick up who's been there, whether they're male or female, roughly how long ago they passed, whether a female is in season, and even something about their mood and health. Peeing over the same spot is a way of leaving their own message back. It's normal, and letting your dog sniff is good for them.
Why do dogs smell other dogs' pee?
1. It's like reading the local news
Pee carries chemical signals that tell your dog a lot about the dog who left it: their sex, whether they're entire or neutered, whether a female is in season, and how recently they passed by.
2. Their nose is built for it
Dogs have a far more powerful sense of smell than we do, plus a special organ in the roof of the mouth, the vomeronasal or Jacobson's organ, that picks up these chemical signals. That's why you sometimes see a dog chatter their teeth or lick the air after a good sniff.
3. It helps them understand who's around
Sniffing helps your dog get to know the other dogs in the area before they even meet them.
Why do dogs pee where other dogs pee?
This is called marking, or over-marking. Your dog is leaving their own scent on top of another dog's, a bit like replying to a message. It's more common in entire males, but neutered males and females do it too. Some dogs save a little pee for every lamppost on the walk.
Why do dogs smell their own pee?
Your dog may be checking what they've left, or catching up on the other smells in the same spot. It's normal and nothing to worry about.
Should I let my dog sniff on walks?
Yes, as much as you reasonably can. Sniffing is mentally tiring, helps your dog relax and is a big part of what makes a walk enjoyable for them. A slow, sniffy walk can leave your dog calmer than a fast march around the block.
If you need to keep moving, use a cue like "let's go" and reward your dog for coming with you, then give them sniffing time again a bit further on.
When is sniffing or marking a problem?
Sniffing itself isn't a problem. Speak to your vet if your dog:
Suddenly starts peeing much more often
Strains, dribbles or seems uncomfortable when peeing
Has blood in their pee or starts having accidents indoors
These can be signs of a urine infection or another health problem. Marking indoors is a different issue and is worth getting help with.
RENEE'S TIP
Try a "sniffari" once a week: a walk where your dog chooses the route and sniffs for as long as they like. You'll be surprised how tired and content they are afterwards.
QUICK CHECK
ā Pee carries a lot of information for dogs
ā Peeing on the same spot is leaving a reply
ā Sniffing is good for your dog's brain
ā Use a cue like "let's go" when you need to move on
ā Peeing much more or straining? Speak to your vet
FROM RENEE'S BOOKSHELF
The Modern Guide to Scentwork
Easy nose games and scentwork you can start at home, for dogs of any age.
FAQs
Why do dogs smell other dogs' pee?
To gather information. A sniff tells them who's been there, their sex, whether a female is in season, how recently they passed and something about their mood.
Why do dogs pee where other dogs have peed?
It's called marking. Your dog is leaving their own scent on top, like replying to a message.
Why do dogs smell their own pee?
They may be checking what they've left or catching up on the other smells in the same spot. It's normal.
Why do dogs chatter their teeth after sniffing pee?
It helps move the scent to a special organ in the roof of the mouth that picks up chemical signals from other dogs.
Should I stop my dog sniffing on walks?
No. Sniffing is calming and mentally tiring. Use a cue like "let's go" when you need to move on, and give them sniffing time too.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renee Patience Ā· National Dog Trainer of the Year 2025
Founder and head trainer of Paws Academy, with more than 30 years training dogs and a Level 6 Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour. Renee has competed in agility, obedience and heelwork to music across the UK, including at Crufts and Olympia, has appeared on CBBC, and is the author of the Modern Training Guides and the Modern Breed Handbook series. Pictured with her boxer, Kookie.
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