15 month dog suddenly defecating in house

[ruth]

Hi all!!
I am British, but live in Nicaragua, Central America! We have a cross-bred dalmatian, he is about 15 months old. We found him as a puppy in a cage in the local market, so we dont know much about his past. He's always been nervous and very attached to us, he follows us about from room to room.

We are in the house all day, as we work from home. Two days ago he suddenly began defectating and urinating in the house when we let him in the morning. Previously he has always done this outdoors. Our home help left under a week ago, and a new lady arrived two days ago - could it be this that is affecting our dog? The girl who left has been coming daily for about a year to the house. She would give him his bowl of food in the mornings. Could the dog be depressed because he misses her? What can we do to help him, and correct this behaviour?

I would appreciate any advice!!!
Thanks, Ruth

 

[ChocLabLover]

Dogs feel very close to people and you seem like you might have an omega dog...

They are tuffer to train as they are very attatched to things and intimidated by many things. This could be a sign that she misses her so you must be very comforting to the dog and keep a very close eye on him. Do you have a fixed feeding schedule? If you do then its easier to know when he needs to go outside. Once he finishes give lavish praise and a treat and if you catch him doing his business in the house put him in his cage.

Hope this helps look at my signature if you need more help

 

[Doberluv]

That's some good insight. Also, you might get the new lady to help out with the care of the dog, feeding, giving a few commands and treats after. She could maybe take a little walk with your dog (if he would like that) around the house or yard, being very fun, but quiet, throw a ball for him. In other words, try to get a little bonding going on between the two. Other than that, just watch the dog more carefully like you would a puppy and take him outside a little more often. Be sure she or anyone else doesn't scold the dog for this or anything. He sounds very sensative. I'm sure he'll come around. Let us know how he does.