Toilet training new dog - 2008-07-07

Question

Hi, i have a problem with my new dog (8 months old, had her for 2 months) which i couldn't find an answer to. She was housetrained when we got her, but she poops on the back lawn right in the middle of where we walk out to the back shed. I've tried walking her out to an area where we want her to poo after feeding & first thing in the mornings etc. I've tried pointing at the poo and saying "dont poo here" angrily while moving it away. I've even tried rubbing her nose in it. But she just still poos there. Do you have any suggestions? (shes a red shar pei/ staffy cross) Thanks, Tim

Answer

Tim, the cross breed you have can ver very stubborn and determined. I would thoroughly clean the area on the way to the shed, spray it with citronella oil or a mixture with lemon juice (when dry weather) and she will move away as the smell will deter her. Moving her nose in things, will make her even more determined - remember she gets attention! Take her on the leash to an area where you would like her to go and when she has done something, praise and praise even more. It may also help to move some of her stool to the area you would like her to go - smell transfer. See you you go - good luck.