Pooping in the House Dear Trainer, We could really use your help in trying to work with our 6 month old male shitzu-maltese mix.  He is the light of our lives, and is a real lover.  He hasn't had an accident in the house for 2 months (urinating), however we have a real problem with him pooping in the house. He was doing really great,but started to show some submissive behavior. At times, we have to actually pick him up to take him out, in order for him to go poo, or else he just sits by the door and shakes. We take him out, to the same spot, 5 to 10 minutes after he eats. 75% of the time, he does what he's supposed to, we praise him and all is well. Then all of a sudden, it's almost as if he is just to lazy to take the time to go. He has actually poo'ed as he's walking out the door - or as he's playing ball in the living room. He just "goes" on the run, all across the living room.  We don't leave him out in the house alone. If we aren't home, he is put in his crate, never more than a couple hours at a time.He sleeps in his crate at night. We have another dog - 5 years old, with no problems, and they get along great. He will poo right in front us - as if to get some attention - and then other times  - it's as if he doesn't have a clue that he's "leaving a trail behind him"!   We take him out regularly, and try to stick to a schedule. We have even tried crating him if he doesn't do his business after he eats. And then we wait about 30 minutes and take him out again, and keep repeating. But I'll be honest, after awhile, we feel guilty and let him out. My partner is convinced he's doing this on purpose, just to get her.   Thanks again for any help you can give us. Also, we have a problem with him eating poo out of the yard.   Have a great day, Jill and Doe Hi Jill and Doe,                      Sounds as if you're doing all the right things. Are you feeding him at same times daily and restricting treats? By eating the same time and amount, his body should get on an elimination schedule. You might want to consider changing his food and be sure he's not getting to the other dog's food. Also, you want to make going outside more fun for him. A coat may help if he's cold. Also use a leash in house so as soon as you see any signs of eliminating in house, you can rush him outside. As far as the fecal eating, is it his or both dogs? Some dogs will eat their own poop because it wasn't digested properly and smells like food. You can add a teaspoon of pumpkin to his food, or buy a product called forbid, to make it less desirable. Also clean up yard area as soon as either dog eliminates. I really don't believe dogs do things to irritate us on purpose, that's a human trait. He's still young and doesn't really know what you want of him. Be patient and keep on as much of a strict schedule as possible.Keep me posted, Lisa Bark & Browse

Ask the Trainer Past Columns Group Training Graduates Potty Troubles Submissive Puppy Stubborn Shih Tzu Pug Fights Trouble with Boxer Multiple Troubles Paper Trained ??? Aggressive Dog Pooping in the House Chewing Golden Housebreaking Cujo at Bedtime Socializing with Dogs Pooping in her Cage Violent Streak Fear of Lightning Lab Snaps at Kids Canine Marking Fighting Dogs Barking Chihuahua Trouble Grooming Shitzu Barking Trouble EMAIL YOUR QUESTION FREE PET ID TAG when you bring in your new pet adoption papers!