A dog that is defecating in the house is not trying to be "bad" or defiant of the rules. Understanding canine habits of elimination is the first step to controlling those habits. Work with the dog's natural cycles and behaviors to keep both pet and owner happy. Reward good behavior and try not to become angry with the dog over unwanted behaviors.
Things You'll Need
- Leash
- Treats
- Dog crate
Instructions
Schedule Feedings
Create a schedule for feeding the dog. Most dogs should be fed two to three meals a day, depending on the size, weight and breed of dog. Feed dogs at the same times every day. This helps to regulate their digestive tracts and makes elimination more predictable.
Schedule trips outside for when the dog will be most likely to eliminate. Most dogs will need to do this shortly after meals and directly after waking up from a long nap. The excitement of romping and playing hard may also cause a dog to need to urinate.
Reinforce desired behavior by feeding treats each time the dog defecates in the correct area. The treat must be fed to the dog immediately after the behavior so she associates good toileting habits with the treat.
Clean soiled areas thoroughly. A dog will continue to urinate and defecate in an area that smells like urine or feces. Dogs have a much better sense of smell than people do, so the thing to remember is "clean and clean again." Just because a person can no longer smell a foul odor does not mean a dog will not smell it.
Use a carpet cleaner or upholstery cleaner to clean carpets and other fabric surfaces soiled by a pet. Clean most soiled hard surfaces such as linoleum with a surface cleaner containing bleach.
Place the dog in a crate at bed time (this should not be for longer than six hours and only at bed time). Dogs do not want to defecate where they sleep and they should try to avoid it. Crate training teaches a dog to control the bowels and bladder. After being in a crate all night, the dog should need to urinate and defecate by morning. Release the dog from the crate and take him directly outside to the area to be used for defecation. Wait for the dog to eliminate. It may take a while, so be patient and give the dog time to complete his task.