Why Is My House-Trained Dog Pooping in the House?

Recently, two of my neighbors have been complaining about coming home to the unpleasant smell of dog poop. Why now? Is it some sort of revenge?

Probably not! If you are having similar issues, it is not likely that your dog is thinking through his bowel movements enough to use them for revenge.

Although this issue can be frustrating, it is important to remember that there are many reasons that could be causing this behavior.

Sometimes figuring out the trigger for this unacceptable behavior requires investigative work.

MEDICAL ISSUES

It is important to rule out medical issues. A phone call or a trip to the veterinarian may be in order. The following are medical issues to rule out:

• Food intolerance
• Allergies
• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia
• Bowel cancer
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Pain or arthritis

EMOTIONAL ISSUES

If you have sought the advice of your vet and a medical issue does not seem to be the problem, it is time to consider emotional issues.

• Anxiety
• Boredom
• Lack of Stimulation

Your dog may suffer from separation anxiety, boredom, and lack of stimulation. It is not time to give up hope; there are steps you can take to lessen or correct the problem:

• Don’t make a big deal about leaving the house or coming home.
• Consider over-the-counter calming aids available at Braxton’s
• Ask the vet about prescription drugs that calm anxiety.
• Confine your dog to one room with windows and toys.
• Leave your dog with some recently worn clothes. Your smell can have a calming effect.

With so many people returning to work after an extended time at home, your dog may need help adjusting to the new schedule. Stop by Braxton’s to see our selection of calming aids and toys. Your dog may just need a new toy to occupy his time at home.