| Use the same rules for housebreaking an older dog as you would a puppy.
Crate/confine him when you're not home or unable to supervise him, and take him out for potty immediately when he comes out of the crate. Take him out for potty about 10 minutes after feeding him. If he starts to do the typical 'sniff the floor looking for a spot' thing, take him out. If he lifts his leg and you catch him in the act, take him out.
PRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISE when he potties outside. Do not get angry with him unless you catch him going in the house, and even then, give him a quick verbal "AHHHH AHHH!!", take him out, let him finish his business outside, praise for pottying outside, and come back in to clean up the mess. I had an 18 month old foster dog that probably NEVER spent any time in a home until he came to my house. He was terrified of the front door, unsure of the stairs and thought everything was his toilet...LOTS of treats got him in and out the door and up/down the stairs, and we made progress on his potty issues. He was adopted 2 weeks after he came to me and his new family knew he would be a challenge in the potty dept....and he was ;)...but his charm won them over!!
Is he neutered? Has he been checked by the vet to ensure it's not a medical issue that is causing him to potty in the house??
Good luck, have patience, and keep us updated!! | 
03-21-2003, 12:59 PM
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