Preliminary observations on the urinary behaviour of female Jack Russell Terriers in relation to stage of the oestrous cycle, location, and age

In female canids, including domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), scent-marking with urine is thought to convey information on reproductive state, yet little is known about how urinary behaviour changes across specific stages of the oestrous cycle. We measured urinary behaviour (proportion of directed urinations) of 10 intact Jack Russell Terriers across anoestrus, proestrus, and oestrus during walks in familiar and novel environments. Females ranged in age from 1.3 to 8.7 years. We assessed stage of oestrus using vaginal cytology, behaviour, and physical signs. Proportions of directed urinations were higher during proestrus and oestrus than anoestrus, and were higher in older females than younger females. Our findings indicate that in female Jack Russell Terriers, scent-marking with urine advertises reproductive state and continues to develop in adulthood. Additional data are needed to determine if these findings generalize to female dogs of other breeds and mixed breeds.