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New member of our family.

East_Texas_Melody

16 years ago

My husband and I rescued a 1-1/2 old male Poodle Shih Tzu mix. He is pretty wiry but is getting more and more comfortable in his new home. I will be starting obedience training with him in April. We have other dogs and we have a problem that we just donÂt know how to handle. No matter how long we stay outside and whether he poops or not, quite often when he comes in he poops on the floor and pees often. He was neutered just before we adopted him and still seems to also "mark" his territory as well. Does anyone have any suggestions to train him to stop this? Please help!

Don and Melody Wilburn

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Comments (7)

petaloid
16 years ago
How long since he was neutered? I was told that male hormones stay in the dog's system for some time after the neutering surgery, continuing to affect behavior temporarily.
East_Texas_Melody
Original Author
16 years ago
We have had him 5 weeks and the incision was still pink when we brought him home... but I donÂt really know.
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oceanna
16 years ago
There are two directions to tackle housebreaking. One is prevention, and the other is reward for going in the right place. I've raised tons of puppies and it makes a huge difference if you use a clicker and treats when they go in the yard, not just the treats. Try it and you'll see.

For prevention crate him, tie him to your waist, or tie him to a table leg on a somewhat short leash when you can't be actively, and I do mean actively, watching him. If you prevent ALL accidents in the house for a couple of "hell" weeks, you're probably home free.
northy
16 years ago
Congratulations on your new addition! Shih Tzu's have a reputation for being difficult to housebreak. Small dogs in general can be tricky as it is so easy for them to duck out of sight and have a quick potty break. :(

Working as a rescue foster, I treat every dog I've worked with as if they are not housebroken until proven otherwise (3 weeks without accident). No matter what the shelter/previous owner says. New homes can be confusing. Strict schedules for feedings and potty times, leashed to me at all times or crated. The more consistent you can be the faster they'll get it.

Feeding on a schedule helps considerably. Feed at the same times everyday. 15 minutes to eat and take the food away. If they don't eat their breakfast, offer it again mid-day. Take a water away 2 hours before bedtime. Their body will quickly adjust to eating/potty on schedule.

Marking is tricky. Sometimes it does go away on its own as the harmones fade. Some dogs mark for life. Having him leashed to you so you can catch him in the act *every* attempt will get the point across it is not acceptable.

There was a very good topic a few weeks ago on housebreaking. It's worth a look.
oceanna
16 years ago
If it's really marking, a belly band may convince him it's a bad idea.
East_Texas_Melody
Original Author
16 years ago
IÂm not sure itÂs marking... he doesnÂt empty his bladder, just a little bit and keeps walking.
oceanna
16 years ago
Sounds like marking.

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