I agree with keeping him in a smaller space when you can't watch him. Scout went through this when he was about 4 months old, and I put him on one weekend of "puppy boot camp". It did the trick and no more accidents. Personally, I think he was just rebelling and trying to see how much he could get away with! Here's how it works: Set aside 2 days to deal with this issue. Put him on a 6 foot leash with the other end attached to YOU, and he stays with you all the time. Have yummy treats in your pocket at all times. Have the puppy pad in one area only (the place you want it to be permanently). It's almost like going back to new puppyhood. Take several opportunities to go to the pad and say "potty", or whatever word you use. If he goes, praise him wildly and give a treat. If you are around the house and notice he looks like he needs to go, get him to the pad pronto. Make sure you are giving him opportunity to eat, drink, play etc. After he's going well on the pad again, you may have to treat for awhile. A friend of mine treats for potty all the time with cherios. They are cheap and won't make your dog fat! Good luck! If you try puppy boot camp, let me know how it worked for you! |