[Roccosmommy]

I'm so sorry you are going through this, and yes, dogs don't usually soil their "den" area, so that is an instant hurdle for you. Also, I agree with Britster that any medical causes need to be ruled out.

Your comment of "And if we eat our dinner, she often runs into the living room and poos" made me think that she is doing it when she has the opportunity to be away from you and no one can see. Have you been negatively disciplining her when she does mess in the house? If so, that will only encourage her to do it when no one is looking (aka all at the dinner table) and she can't be seen making a 'naughty' poo. As difficult as it is, negative reinforcement should never be used with potty training. When she does go in the house, just clean it up nonchalantly and don't say a word... don't even look in her direction. IF you happen to catch her in the act, simply pick her up mid-pee or poo, do not say a word, and place her where you DO want her to go (outside). Then praise her to no end, even if she already finished before you took her out. This connects the action with the place and the resulting positive praise.

Also, how much time is she spending in the crate? Maybe she is a pet store puppy and the crate stresses her out? Perhaps you can try to make a small enclosed area her "space" if the crate seems to be the problem?

I know you are tired and it seems like this will never end, but trust me - with patience and positive reinforcement, this too shall pass. Hang in there, and remember - at 5 months, she is just a baby.