Stella is a 10 yr old Australian Shepherd/yellow Lab mix who just lost her 14 year old chocolate Lab sister. When no one is home, she has been pooping and peeing in the house since our other dog died. Stella did not do that when her sister was alive, why is she doing it now? Could she be in mourning? She knows she did bad as she runs outside when I get home and won't come in the house for fear of getting in trouble for her actions.
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This is definitely a grief-related situation.
Step 1
Make sure you put her on a strict food/walking schedule.
Step 2
Praise her when she does the right thing.
Step 3
Don't punish her for accidents.
Step 4
You may have to crate her until she only goes outside.
Thanks so much for your clear, down to Earth answer. We've had the same problem. Will do ASAP!
Grieving dog.
Step 1
Dogs grieve to the loss of another dog to the point of even getting physically ill. Just keep things the same as much as possible following his regular routines.
Step 2
Provide more things for him like playing with him, extra walks, let him run somewhere for exercise. You can try obedience school to keep him busy.
Step 3
The two dogs probably played and napped together, so keeping him busy with a game of tug of war or a walk will help him cope with the loss.
Step 4
Try rewarding him with praise and treats when he goes outside. Play with him for a few minutes. Eventually, he will get over it he needs time.
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