[ldb51]

I am new to this board----searched it out because of a problem I'm experiencing with my 3 year old male yorkie. Less than a year ago our other yorkie died at the ripe old age of 15. I have had very few problems with Mckenzie, but since Chappy died we have noticed more "accidents" in the house---so much so that we're having to replace our carpeting. He seems to favor this area at the bottom of our stairway to the second floor. This is very disconcerting because we have a "Pet Door" which he is very capable of accessing. Both my husband and I work full time. I haven't been able to discern if this problem is because of separation anxiety or marking to "protect" access to the upper living area from neighborhood dogs he may think are a threat. Regardless, we're getting ready to spend Big Bucks on replacing the carpeting in the entire house. I want this problem fixed before then. The "accidents" happen somethimes when we're at work and sometimes when we're at home. I've tried punishing him to no avail----when I find the evidence he knows immediately what I'm upset about and banishes himself to the bathroom or outside. I have no clue what to do other than lock him outside or in the bathroom while we're gone . Neither solution is palatable to me. I would greatly appreciate any and all suggestions. Right now my hubby wants to make him an "outdoor" dog. Thanks again for any suggestions.