What Can You Put on the Carpet to Keep Dogs From Going to the Bathroom There?

When a dog pees on a carpet it can cause long-term damage to the carpet, and perhaps to the underlying floorboards. You have several options to consider if you need to stop your dog from peeing on the carpet.

  1. Vinegar

    • The smell of vinegar is unpleasant to dogs and acts as a deterrent. Mix together in equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist it on your carpet. Be careful not to spray to the level of puddling the mix because this could damage your carpet. With regular misting you will have a better chance of gradually infusing the scent without damaging the carpet. Take your dog to the carpet after misting and gently force them to smell the carpet so that they will become aware that this is an unpleasant area. Vinegar is also good to mask previous accidents that your dog may have had on the carpet.

    Aluminum Foil

    • If you see your dog focusing on one area and you are fearful that this may become a bathroom spot, spread aluminum foil over it. Your dog will not like the slippery feel of the foil or the noise created when he walks on it. Make a sharp clapping sound whenever you see him step on it. In addition, if he urinates on the foil it will puddle and splash back on him, making the experience an unpleasant one.

    Deterrent Mats

    • Visit your local pet store and look into the purchase of a mat that gives off a vibration or small electric charge when stepped on. You can place this mat at the entry way to the carpeted area of your home. Your dog will begin to get the message that she should not go in this room.

    Chemical Deterrents

    • Your pet store will also have spray bottles of chemical-based deterrents. This should be the last resort because with repeated spraying both you and your pet could have adverse effects such as itching and sneezing. These sprays are best when you are traveling with your pet and want to avoid damage to hotel rooms carpets with a quick spray.