Expert: Renee Cox - 3/10/2008

Question
My kids moved into a new home 9 days ago.  Their boxer, Rocky, was fine until about three days ago.  Since then, he's been pooping all over their brand new house when they leave him alone.  They can't crate him because since the death of his "sister," who was hit by a car last October, when he's put in his crate, he pees all over the place - inside and outside the crate.  My kids are just beside themselves.  He's making a mess on the new carpets AND the tile.

They don't know what to do.  It seems like a lot for the poor guy to deal with in six months.  The death of his constant companion and moving from the only home he's ever known.  Do you have any suggestions on how to re-housebreak Rocky?

Answer
HI Sally. It's going to take some time, and a lot of patience. Some dogs don't deal with change as easily as others. With the death of his mate, the move was probably pretty traumatic for him. The first thing that they can do it to keep him confined to one area that would ok if he had an accident. Use tall baby gates if possible. Another thing they can try is to have someone come to the house and walk him during the day while they're gone. That will let him use the bathroom outside, and also give him much needed stimulation. Have them walk him a lot when they are home. Tell them to not make a big fuss when they're leaving. The dog will eventually understand that everything is ok, and that the neew home is great. The first step though would be to confine him to one room until he can be trusted. They may also want to look into some obedience classes for Rocky. It will give him a refresher course, and again, stimulate and wear him out. A happy, worn out dog will most likely NOT poop all over the house. That's also why I suggested having someone come over and walk him while they're gone. He'll get to potty and it'll wear him out at the same time. Give him time, a normal routine, and plenty of love. He'll come around. Good luck!