1. Separation Anxiety: Dogs can experience separation anxiety when left alone, especially if they are closely attached to a specific person. Since your dog only exhibits this behavior when you are away and your husband is present, it's possible that she feels anxious and stressed in your absence. To alleviate separation anxiety, try providing your dog with comfort items like a favorite toy or a calming pheromone spray while you're away. Gradually increasing the duration of time you're gone and offering treats or rewards when you return can also help reduce anxiety.
2. Territory Marking: Dogs may also engage in marking behaviors as a way to claim their territory. If your husband spends more time in the bedroom or on your side of the bed, the dog might perceive that area as his territory and mark it with poop to reinforce his claim. To discourage marking, thoroughly clean the affected area with an enzyme cleaner that eliminates the scent of feces and discourage your dog from accessing the bedroom when you're away.
3. Medical Issues: In some cases, inappropriate elimination can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as urinary tract infection (UTI), gastrointestinal issues, or even neurological problems. If your dog's pooping behavior is accompanied by other symptoms like straining to urinate, vomiting, or diarrhea, it's important to consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical causes.
To address the problem effectively, it's important to first understand the underlying reason for your dog's behavior. If separation anxiety is the cause, you can work on desensitizing your dog to your absence and providing comfort during those times. For territory marking, consistent training and management can help discourage the behavior. Should any medical issues be present, appropriate treatment from the veterinarian will be necessary.