Defecation in
the House
Dear WOOF:
I am fostering a dog, Scout, that does not wet in the house, but
does poop in the basement. The rescue said that he's used to
pooping on cement from being in the kennel so I am working with
him but not
having a great amount of success. Also, our other dog still has
not warmed up to him. We can foster him and keep trying to work
with him. We don't want to see him go back in the rescue kennel
because all of the work we've done so far will be lost.
Please Help!
Hi:
The way to resolve Scout's housesoiling in the basement is to
prevent it entirely from happening, and to make sure that the
only place he does go is outside where you want him to.
When you let him out of his crate, he should not be allowed down
into the basement unless you are with him to supervise - or
you're absolutely sure that he's already gone #2 outside.
Take him out to the same place for #2 each time, this will help
him build the habit more quickly, because in that area, a scent
post will build and he will continue to attracted back to that
spot for #2
elimination.
If you take him out at a time when you suspect that he has to go
(keep track - if he eats at regular times, he is likely to have
to do #2 at fairly regular times as well) keep him out for 3-5
minutes only...if he does not do his #2 in that amount of time,
bring him back in and either actively supervise to prevent a
mistake (DO NOT ALLOW HIM INTO THE BASEMENT OR ANY OTHER #2
TARGET AREA) or crate
him, and then try again in another 15-20 minutes. The prevention
part is key. By doing this, the feeling of having to go #2 is
building, and we're providing him with the opportunity to
succeed as he goes in
the right place!
When he does go outside #2, be sure you're there so that you can
reward the behavior with food immediately.
If you follow this advise, Scout's behavior will improve - who
knows, maybe you'll be able to adopt him!!!
Should you have questions, or need any further help, feel free
to write. You may also want to visit www.woofology.com for and
information that may be of help to you.
Good Luck!
Lisa Patrona, Dip. CBST, CPDT-KA, ACDBC, AABP-CDT
The follow up:
Dear Lisa:
I took your advice and he's stopped!!!! We have decided to keep
him!! I was wondering if I could find out details of your
training program. Scout is so smart and I would like to learn
how to train him. Just when the next class starts and the
prices. Jackie from Critter Connections really thinks highly of
you and has told me a lot about your program. Let me know!
Thanks!
Hi again:
What wonderful news for Scout and your family!!!!
Regarding classes, we have them starting all the time. Please either visit www.woofology.com for time and date information. The cost for the
class is usually $259.00 for 1.5 hours per week for 6 weeks. Since Scout
is rescued, you are entitled to a $25.00 discount.
Thank you so much for sharing your success...it is the reason
that we do what we do, It is so rewarding when things go well
and the dog gets to stay in a loving home.
Let me know if you have questions.
Take Care,
Lisa
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