I had a cat who occasionally used the area at the bottom of my stairs also.
So - I replaced that area with a beautiful wood-like vinyl. It didn't solve the problem, but it was super easy to clean. And, fortunately, this was almost the only place the cat ever used.
I wouldn't want to leave my dog confined to a small bathroom area either - but he is confined to my kitchen and laundry room (which is much larger - but not real big). He can see through the gate into the rest of the house and seems to do okay.
I put a belly band on him when he has full run of the house. But, we are going to start some serious outdoor potty training now that it's getting nicer out.
Good luck!
Carol Jean |