Solving your dog's house soiling behavior

Your perfectly housetrained pooch has suddenly lost his manners, or perhaps he uses them sporadically. There are various reasons why dogs sometimes do their business in inappropriate places. The trick is to determine what's causing these lapses. Only then can you implement an effective solution to the problem.

Does your dog have seasons of good manners behind him, but recently has been soiling in the house? If he seems listless, feverish or is straining to eliminate – or if you notice blood in his stool – his accidents may be the result of a medical condition, such as colitis, cancer or urinary tract infection. Loss of bladder control can also develop in old age. If you suspect illness, see a veterinarian immediately.

Solving house soiling problems with crate training

If your dog has been soiling in his crate, most likely it is too large or the bedding is absorbing the odor. Or, perhaps your dog learned early on to accept laying in his own waste. The idea behind crate training is that your dog will find soiling his own private den so distasteful that he'll learn to control himself until you take him out. If his crate is too big, he can dirty one end and not be bothered by the mess or smell if he lies down at the other end. He should have just enough room to turn around and stretch out. You can reduce excess space with a barrier.

It's also important to completely eliminate the scent and odor. When you do, look for a product that is safe to use around your pet and is not just a perfume cover-up.

If you think bedding is causing a problem, remove it from his crate. He'll have to earn it. If he can last for a week without soiling his crate, give him a thin sheet or towel to lie on. If this remains clean, it's safe to offer him something more comfy.

If your dog waits to soil at home when making the transition from training pads to outdoors, he may have a problem eliminating in front of you. Put down training pads on a schedule that is consistent with his regular outdoor walks. When it's time to go out, lead him on a leash to the training pads instead and praise him for successful efforts. This method transfers from indoors to out.

If you head for home as soon as your dog eliminates, he may learn that if he holds it in, he'll get to play longer. To remedy this, head for a suitable place to eliminate as soon as you start the walk. Circle the spot for no more than ten minutes. If he's still holding, head home and crate him. Try again in an hour. Repeat when necessary, and you'll most likely see results. This is a lesson that dogs learn quickly!

Neutering & dog crate training

Even after your dog has been properly trained to relieve himself outside, it is possible that he may do his business indoors. As dogs mature, they may begin to mark their territory, which includes your home. This happens a lot with unneutered males, so it's another good reason to have your pet neutered. If your dog is neutered and is still marking, Experts recommend that you confine him to his crate when he is alone until he's back on track.

If you are unable to solve this problem using these methods, see your veterinarian or behavior specialist for further assistance.