Community Chat

[Queen of Scott]

Hi. I am a new per owner and new to the Pet Lovers forum. Three weeks ago we adopted a 2 year old Bichon that had been found wondering the streets. We have not had a dog before, and so far, things are going very well. Bruno is a very sweet little dog, and came to us already house-trained. He did not have an accident until he had been in our home for about a week, when he pooped in our son's room one night during the night. We cleaned it up with an odor neutralizing spray recommended to us at Petsmart. Then, about a week later, he did it again (again during the night) in my son's room. We cleaned up again, and everything was fine until today. My husband went into my daughter's room (who is 19 and recently moved out into an apartment) this afternoon, and discovered that Bruno had pooped in about six different places around her room! Fortunately, it was easy to pick up and dispose of. Of course, we treated the carpet where he had gone (I am so glad I bought a Haan steamer this summer....makes me feel better to be able to sanitize the carpet after these accidents!). Anyway, not having had a dog before, we are at a loss as to what to do. We don't know how to get him to stop pooping inside now. We do take him outside to potty frequently, as well as several walks. I understand from some reading online that we can offer positive reinforcement when he goes outside, by praising him and offering a small treat. But, what can we do to get him to stop popping in the house (no pee, at least so far, so I am thankful for that)? Thanks in advance for any help you can offer!