How do you stop dogs from pooping in the house?

Question

My dog is 3 years old (old enough to know not to go potty in the house, I'd say!), and still goes potty in the house! He goes to the bathroom outside, but also inside sometimes. We can't get a doggie door, because our cats will get out. And we can't get a crate because he's a really big dog and needs room to move around. I don't know what to do! I can't tell when he has to go out, because often he just wants to go play. He never used to do this. Why did he start now?

Answer 1

1. Feed him on a schedule, once or twice a day, measured amounts, and only at those times. If a dog eats on a schedule, he will 'empty' on a schedule. Give him no other food, not even a morsel, at any other time. NO people food; it can mess up their digestive system and make them grossly obese.
2. Take him out on leash to a potty area 5 times a day, for 10 minutes at a time: 7am, noon, 5pm, 7pm, 10pm. YOU create his schedule, not him. He may not always got at each time, but he will get the idea that this is his chance, and will probably pee a few times a day, an poop once or twice a day. He will get on schedule, believe me.
3. When he starts going, quietly praise him and give a 'cue' word, like 'hurry up' or 'do your business'. Only use the cue while he's actually going. He will learn the cue, and go on command. (Proven to work - mine does, I've had other dogs do it)
4. Just to be safe, you can have him checked out at the vets.

Dogs thrive on consistency. If this occurred all of a sudden, it is likely that something changed in his life. New home? New people at home? Someone that used to take him for walks gone away? Get his life back to a normal predictable schedule. He'll appreciate it, and you won't have to pick up the poop any more.

Oh I almost forgot - get 'Nature's Miracle' or 'Simple Solution' at the pet store, and follow the directions for cleaning up the spots where went.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Spray "Boundries" (Stuff you can buy at a store) It prevents them from going to the bathroom inside! Thats for the furniature though.

Answer 3

Whenever I need tips on training my dog to not do something or do it I just refer to this site its really great, I was able to teach my dog to stop peeing in the house! www.invaderzimfans.info

Hope that helps!
-Kyahl

Answer 4

Do like my mom, rub their noses in it. It totally works.