cindyandmocha, I honestly wasn't referring to your post at all. I completely got what you were trying to convey and I totally agree. Something else about crating people often don't understand is it should never be used for punishment. It's supposed to be their safe haven, like a bedroom would be for a child. Punish them to it and they will not enjoy being there. We don't punish our dog. We use positive reinforcement instead and as a result we'll often find her relaxing in her crate. We seldom ever close the door, but when we do, she still doesn't mind. I think it really helped to make her feel secure in her new home. She was one of 11 so very used to company and we ended up having to bring her home at the young age of 6 weeks. From day one the crate has been her spot and she never cried once for her mother or siblings, not even at night. She also gets a little put out when the cat decides to give the crate a try. She knows it's hers and likes that. But I do have to say, she doesn't sleep with us unless we crash downstairs on a Saturday night. She sleeps downstairs and we're upstairs. If you have more then one pet, it does seem to help. Our cat seems to fill any void she'd have if she were alone instead. I don't believe that one style will fit all. Our dog is a Lab, very even tempered and eager to please. The techniques we used may not work well with another breed or dog. You sort of have to customize each technique to fit your situation.

Thanks again everyone for your advice! I am going to use a topical (50% Heat-50% bitter apple). I also have an outstanding dermatology vet that I am due to take one of my other dogs in to for a check. I am considering taking Kai in just for her opinion. Dealing with Kai's issues since last April when she came along has really been a challenge for all involved. If I didn't work from home so much and have the financial blessing, things would be quite different. I am wondering how some people not as blessed take care of their pets if they can't afford it. Anyone posting a question here knows very well the $ involved, although I like to say my pets health is not about that, but in a lot of ways it is. This is especially true when the vet screws up and doesnt fix things. I really think that the profession should offer refunds, or we as consumers should be more active when things go wrong with diagnosis. I know humans make mistakes, but I have spent thousands on misdiagnosis for my pets, came close to loosing my dog at least three times, and never even gotten an apology. This is the reason I'm on my 8th vet in 16 years. Sorry, just venting,. Thanks again everyone!! SG

First, I will disclaim with check with your vet to rule out any physical issues. My experience with two now gone labradors, were that they both became more anxious with age. My male started around age 9 with separation anxiety, my female was younger, yet she had issues throughout her life with stranger anxiety. There are meds available that can be used to make your pet more comfortable after you rule out any other medical issues. My first "grown up" lab was put on Amitriptyline (sp?) when he started hiding in my husband's closet when I would go to the office. After 3 weeks on the dose, he was fine with being left and we never had another incident. My female was taking so many meds when her separation anxiety set in that the above med or Qualcalm (sp?) (commonly used for anxiety) weren't an option. We used Melatonin 3 mg. during times when there were going to be thunderstorms. I was also able to adjust my schedule to work from my home office so she really spent very litle time without someone in the house. Also, we had 3 dogs, so she was really never alone. I am now realizing that it is not only older dogs who can experience anxiety as my youngest (going to be 4) lab is showing signs. We are treating him with the Melatonin as I don't want to start him so young on the heavier meds, and I think alot of his anxiety is a reaction to losing our 12 yr. old female very recently. We are hoping his anxiety will resolve given a little time. Your vet is best to guide you regarding how to deal with the anxiety. I will give one shout out to Amitrip. - Qualcalm (sp.?) is extremely expensive and the same result can be achieved with the Amitriptyline which is a very inexpensive med.

Cynthia nailed it. Your dog simply is not totally housebroken. Dogs pee where they are used to peeing and the last thing we want is for them to get used to peeing in the house. So it's time to go back to the beginning of housebreaking, put on your overcoat and go back outside with her every time. Take a clicker and a few wee treats with you and praise her like crazy. Say your potty words for her. When she discovers that you're clicking and treating her for going she will start going really fast when you take her out. Make sure she's completely empty as best you can before bringing her in. Now look at your clock and her habits. Take notes. You already know she goes right after she wakes, so when you see her sleeping lay your coat out at the ready and take her out instantly as soon as she wakes. It takes at least six weeks to change habits, so expect to be going out with her every time for at least the next six weeks. During that time make it your goal to have not one single bad potty in the house. One bad potty re-starts your six week counter. It's not unusual for a dog her age to start backsliding, particulary when the weather worsens and we stop going out with them -- if that's any comfort to you. Either you really knuckle down on her now, or you're going to have a ruined house and a dog you don't really like. It's never the dog's fault though; it's always up to us to train them very, very thoroughly. We tend to give up too soon and that's our problem. So, happy slogging through the dark nights and the crummy weather! Just know that you're not alone. Dog owners all over the world will be shivering in the cold along with you. Hang in there and do it right during this first year and you'll reap the benefits for the rest of your dog's life. Cop out and you'll have the worst smelling house in town. :/