Hi,
We have an 18 month old Yellow Lab.
When we are at work and when we're asleep, he has the run of the garden and our conservatory to go in and out of (with his own cage and things in) if the weather is bad. My other half goes home at lunch time to see him. He used to take him for a little walk too, but for the last few weeks, he hasn't been doing that because we've got PetPals in to walk him properly during the day instead.

Trouble is, he has suddenly started to "do his business" inside the conservatory instead of going outside, which he hasn't done since he was tiny! I just got a text message from my boyfriend telling me that he's once more had to clean it up this morning and that it's the last straw and now he's going to have to stay outside!

I realise that this is not the way to deal with it, but I'm not sure what might be the cause of this change in behaviour? He knows he's done wrong, because you can see it on his face when you point it out to him, so why is he doing it? It's only really been since we have this guy taking him out during the day, but that doesn't make much sense as a trigger, because he's the most friendly dog and likes all people and dogs, so I wouldn't expect him to be bothered who took him for a walk! And he did meet him before hand and they got on fine.

I'm at a loss as to understand why he's suddenly started to do this. Anyone got any ideas?

Thanks
Ruth

It sounds as though your dog is telling you he's not happy with the new arrangement! :( Maybe he doesn't like the dogwalker when he's alone with him (not accusing the walker of being nasty, just different to you)? One of my early bitches, friendly to people and dogs, refused to go for a walk with anyone without me or my husband there too ...

Does the walker let him of the lead during his walks, all of my dogs have been reluctant to go until they are let off the lead so if that is what he has been used to maybe he has been trying to hang on.

Yes, check out what is actually happening when he is walked. Also he may find it a bit stressful especially if he has to deal with other dogs etc . I am sure things are fine but it does seem it may be to do with the change in routine. He may be worried about a stranger walking him.

Don't tell him he has done something wrong; it's not his fault and in all probability it will stop when the problem is solved. I take it his food etc is being given to him the same? Does the walker give him food treats at all? This could mean a change in bowel habits....

Lindsay
X

I'd agree - something about the new arrangement doesn't suit him - maybe he only likes to do his poos at home?

If you are feeding him twice a day, try just feeding him at night even if it is for a while just to break the habit.  If he empties in the morning before you go to work he might not feel the need to go during the day.

If you are not already on a good quality complete dog food then switching to one might help, you will find that the amount he passes are not as much or as often as tinned food or 'supermarket' complete.

Might be worth a try.

Sandra