Expert: Delores Beck - 2/15/2008

Question
QUESTION: We adopted a 5yo from the pound. He is a wonderful dog,desexed except for one bad habit. He urinates and poos on our outdoor deck area. Sometimes he does this every day and sometimes there are weeks in between. What can we do? Can we train him to a tray or is he too old? We both work but play with him each day and he gets very regular exercise. There is no rhyme or reason that we can find to explain his behaviour.

ANSWER: I'm not quite understanding the situation here, Ruth.  Are you saying you leave him out on the deck all day while you're gone?

Is he not going down into the yard?  Is that what you mean?

If you can clarify the situation that would help.
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sorry, he has access to the whole yard. He also appears ashamed when we go outside after he has gone on the deck and hangs his head. We have never beaten him or rubbed his nose in it.

Answer
So you don't leave him outside on his own all day?  I'm hoping that's not the case and it's just that you let him out and he doesn't make it down to the yard.

If so - disinfect the deck with some vinegar.  Leaving the urine odor there tells him it's his "spot".  Then spread some layers of newspapers around and spray them daily with vinegar. (This shouldn't take long for him to decide the yard is preferable).

But first, I'd back up and start either taking him out on leash or with you down to the yard and praise & reward when he goes - or just watch while he's out and if he starts "thinking" about going on the deck, just get out there and say NO calmly but firmly and direct him down to the yard.  Then praise & reward.

Dogs don't just "get it" on their own - they have to be taught.
He's doing this and senses you're upset but doesn't quite know why.
In his mind - he's "outside" where he's supposed to go and somehow that isn't making you happy :)

So take him - show him - reward and make the deck unattractive in addition.

And be patient - consistent - and stay on it.  This sounds like a good pup who simply needs to understand what you want.
Delores