Expert: Susan Downes - 1/24/2008

Question
I have two half pitbull and half german shepherd dogs that are from the same litter.  I have had both since they were 6 weeks old.  Their names are Goldie and Carmellow.  I have been putting both dogs in a cage but both have learned how to get out of two different cages so far.  Now I leave them out in the back of the basement which is a lot of space for them.  When I come home I have to clean up the basement everyday because there is pee and poop downstairs.  I always reprimand both by showing them the area and firmly saying no.  I believe that Goldie is the one messing in the house because he always hides when I open the door and Carmellow greets me.  Carmellow dashes outside to use the bathroom so I doubt that it is him.  I am having a hard time finding cages that are strong enough for them.  They have gotten to the point that they roll the cages, break the trays and climb out through the bottom of the cage.  I can not live     with my house and basement smelling like dog mess and cleaning up everyday after work.  Also I am afraid that Carmellow may start using the bathroom downstairs too.  Please help.

Answer
Hi Kimberly, At their ages, they should be able to hold it for several hours. You should get some very good quality odor control product and really scrub down the room. It has been found that punishment or telling a dog "no" after the fact does no good at changing the behavior. You are better to immediately take them out to the same area every time and praise them when they go outside. Make a  big deal of it, loads of praise any time they go outside. Be sure you are giving them ample activity prior to leaving them by walking them at the heel for at least 45 minutes to an hour, to exercise minds and bodies and give them time to relieve themselves. Walk again when you return home. Leave me some feedback and follow-up if you have time to let me know how it goes for you. Thank you for writing. Regards, Susan