We live in a flat and have a lovely 3 month old golden retriever puppy. He's weeing on the floor during its evening "mad hour", which lasts from around 8 til 10 (though he's perfectly behaved while we are out during the day). We know it's probably just a phase but we'd prefer to prevent it as much as we can. He hasn't had all its injections yet so taking it out for a long walk in the park isn't a desirable option.

Some websites advise not allowing dogs that are kept indoors unlimited access to water, as this can cause excessive urination, but it seems so cruel, especially as it's so hot at the moment. What should we do?

I would allow free access to water, especially in this heat.

Helen

All dogs should have access to fresh water at all times, and especially in this official heatwave! So you're right to question that advice. At three months he'll be allowed out soon, but the puddling could still go on for a while. Just mop up with a scent-eliminating cleaner and carry on with the house-training. He'll get there in the end. Good luck.
:)

Dogs should always be allowed access to water - especially if they are on dried food too . And even more so in this heat . If we are hot at the moment imagine how they feel in a fur coat .
I would rather deal with puppy pee than a dehydrated puppy :(

I'd leave the water available in this heat. My pup had accidents in the first few months too when he was young , but he has never been without fresh water except prior to surgery. Your pup is only young so hasn't got good bladder control yet anyway. If you can watch the behaviour which happens just prior to puppy weeing, and try and get the pup to the newspaper or wee area - the more successes the better - praise him when he wees in the right place, and more importantly don't cause a fuss when he makes a mistake - just clear up the area thoroughly. Make sure that your playing with him when he is excited isn't becoming part of the trigger to him weeing. If you get worried get him checked out at the vet to rule out a urinary problem.

Just to add that I completely agree: dogs must always have access to fresh water for drinking. I sometimes wonder who writes the dreadful info on other sites that suggests withholding water is perfectly oK.

Lindsay