Hello All!
I've adopted a 9 month old Doberman Pinscher. We've had him about 4 weeks and he's settling in really well, however, I'm having some trouble with housetraining.
We use a crate and he's has never peed in the house. He seems to understand that that's not allowed. However, we've had several of the "other" accidents. (A couple have been related to an upset stomach.) I make sure to walk him within 30 minutes of eating and we go out first thing in the morning for a walk. He doesn't give any warning, circling, sniffing, etc. He did it yesterday while I was washing dishes. I know part of the problem is probably that I don't catch him.
I take him out on leash to go "potty" and I make a huge deal about it outside (with treats & praise) and I've tried using bells on my door - but I don't seem to be getting anywhere.
Is this normal for a rescue? Will it take a little while? Should I just keep him tethered to me while I'm busy? (On the phone, checking e-mail, etc.)
I understand that this is my fault - not his - but I'm wondering if there's anything else I can do. (Should I leave some of his droppings in the area that I want him to go in the yard? Is cleaning them up right away confusing?)
Thanks so much!
I've adopted a 9 month old Doberman Pinscher. We've had him about 4 weeks and he's settling in really well, however, I'm having some trouble with housetraining.
We use a crate and he's has never peed in the house. He seems to understand that that's not allowed. However, we've had several of the "other" accidents. (A couple have been related to an upset stomach.) I make sure to walk him within 30 minutes of eating and we go out first thing in the morning for a walk. He doesn't give any warning, circling, sniffing, etc. He did it yesterday while I was washing dishes. I know part of the problem is probably that I don't catch him.
I take him out on leash to go "potty" and I make a huge deal about it outside (with treats & praise) and I've tried using bells on my door - but I don't seem to be getting anywhere.
Is this normal for a rescue? Will it take a little while? Should I just keep him tethered to me while I'm busy? (On the phone, checking e-mail, etc.)
I understand that this is my fault - not his - but I'm wondering if there's anything else I can do. (Should I leave some of his droppings in the area that I want him to go in the yard? Is cleaning them up right away confusing?)
Thanks so much!