My heart is breaking... Please advise on what to do with this doggie. - YorkieTalk.com Forums

hola_lola · 07-31-2011, 07:47 AM

Hello everyone.

I've been a silent reader for a couple weeks now, and finally decided to post. My sister bought a yorkie last year when I was still away at college. Everyone knew it was a bad idea as my sister travels extensively for work and the pup wouldn't be cared for properly. Everyone was right. The dog was never walked, spent most of the day in her cage or basement, poops and pees in the house resulting in even more time in the basement, has only been taken to the vet once when she got fleas from the neighbor's cat, never taken for grooming... etc.

My sister is due to have a baby and doesn't want the dog in the house around her newborn. The dog still poops and pees in the house, runs away whenever the front door opens and has to be chased around the neighborhood, barks uncontrollably at the sight of another animal or sound of something loud outside. I feel for her, so now that I'm done with school and settling into my first apartment, I'm willing to take her. I work from 8:30 to 5:30, so I take the dog out as much as I can in the morning and evenings when I'm here. Still, she goes in the house. I don't know what to do. I let her sleep with me instead of locking her in the basement as was done previously, yet she still barks uncontrollably.

I've come to love this dog so much and take proper care of her, but she just won't learn. If things don't improve, I will have to give her away, which will tear me up inside. Please help me.

Ahis_Mama · 08-02-2011, 12:46 AM

Bump...

susan lynn · 08-02-2011, 03:19 AM

This poor baby, it is a blessing he has someone to love him and take care of him. There is a lot of great information on YT about how to train an older dog , you just have to start like he is a puppy. He may not be to old for to put in classes to help teach him the basics. You cand type in potty training in the search area and it will give you lots of threads to read.Welcome to YT.

LisaD · 08-02-2011, 04:51 AM

You have come to the right place. There is lots of info here.
I know it is hard, but, don't give up on her yet. Just be consistant (sounds like you are doing that). It will take time to undo what has or has not been done. I have taken in puppy mill moms and dads ALOT and they are tough to train. But, it is SOOO worth the effort when you finally get them there. She may not ever have it down perfect, but, if she is only a year old, she can be trained and you can do it. Just read, talk to people and pet classes would be wonderful. Even the ones at PetSmart will do just fine...make sure there is a good trainer first. MEet witht hem and talk to them before signing up.
Hang in there, I know it is tough, but YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

gemy · 08-02-2011, 04:58 AM

Welcome to YT. I think that in this case it would be best to go to obedience classes, hire a trainer.
There are a number of ways you can do this. Look up in the area dog clubs, often times their name will tell you if they do obedience, for eg; Cleveland Dog Obedience club. Petsmart will sometimes put on obedience classes.

An older dog can still be trained, it is almost never too late!.

Rule out for your pup medical issues, by discussing with your vet her behaviours and see what your vet suggests. Your vet may also know of a good dog trainer in your area as well.

There is a saying that is very true; A tired dog is a good dog! So maybe see if you can exercise her in the evening before bedtime. Try a walk but also some toy play.

See if you can have a dog walker come in to walk her mid day if your schedule doesnèt permit that.

For the barking there are many threads on here on how to train a dog to limit their barking.

It does take time and patience, but it is very rewarding when you see or hear progress.

sugarglass · 08-07-2011, 02:51 PM

i think its wonderful what you're doing.
keep it up and don't lose faith!!!

this doggie really needs you and even though she may not show it right now, i'm sure she is eternally grateful you pulled her out of the basement!

the more damaged they are, the longer it will take for them to heal.
have patience and keep up the training, she will come around.
going through all the training together and learning together will sure the bond between you two.

i have no doubt when she comes out of her shell she will love you and will become a perfect dog. ^_^

Lil Sis · 08-07-2011, 02:55 PM

don't give up on the pup. Have you checked into training classes..maybe at the local community college?

You are doing the right thing!

DvlshAngel985 · 08-07-2011, 03:08 PM

I have one question, does the pup have free roam of the house? If she is not potty trained and is allowed to run around freely, she will make mistakes. I would understand if you would be against crating, because of her past home, but there are alternatives. Confine her to the kitchen, a bathroom(with a baby gate and not the door, so she can still see out) or an expen. Inside her "room" she will need 3 areas, a spot designated for potty (pads) an area for sleep/play, and an area for eating.

With her, your pretty much starting from square one, just like you would with a new puppy. When your home and able to watch her at all times, let her roam after she has already pottied. Set up a predictable schedule for her. With time, she will come to know what are her potty times and go according to schedule.

jan cleveland · 08-07-2011, 03:22 PM

I think you should try to crate train the dog. However, the dog needs to go out at frequent intervals. Any possibility you can come home at lunch?

You could always bring in a trainer and see if they could help. About 20 years ago I had a puppy and didn't know what to do. The trainer came up with an idea. I used an xpen part in and part out on the patio. The puppy was at least doing her business outside and I could hose it down.

gidget529 · 08-07-2011, 03:48 PM

Hi. Welcome. I would recommend getting a "playpen" type apparatus to confine her until she learns better potty manners. I used Sea Breeze Petite Pens (they have a web site). They are adjustable pens that can fold up to travel, and they are sturdy metal. These worked like a charm to give the pup room to play, have her bed, but be confined w a pee pad in case she had a mistake.

hola_lola · 08-07-2011, 05:08 PM

Wow, thanks for your replies. She does have free roam of the house when I'm there, but before she would be in the basement for a good portion of the day, which I hate doing.

I have doggy potty pads and she uses them sometimes, but doesn't other times. We are developing a good routine for going outside, so she's getting better!

I do want to ask about her running away, though. Has anyone else experienced this issue?

Thanks again everyone!

DvlshAngel985 · 08-07-2011, 05:09 PM

For that you need training. Do you do any obedience training with her?

And when you say free roam, do you watch her 100% of the time?

Ringo1 · 08-07-2011, 05:57 PM

I think you are starting from square one - as if you had a tiny puppy. She probably should not have free reign of the house until you can get her housebroken.

I understand your reluctance to use the crate - but it's still better than having to rehome her if you aren't able to get her under control. I also think xpen would be a good idea if you are totally opposed to the crate.

When she does go outside (I'm assuming you are training her outside) - PRAISE HER like crazy! Have a big old praise party and some REALLY GOOD treats ~ the NANOSECOND she pees or poops. She'll catch on quickly.

I have a nice blanket and toys inside Lucy's crate and a blanket over top of it (like a den) and she loves to sleep in there - so maybe it won't be so bad.

Regarding a dog that runs outside - my Westie will - everytime. I learned the concept of training him to stay out the entire area surrounding the door (that's MY space) by watching Cesar Milan. I don't use all his methods - but physically keeping Ringo out of that space by using my body - seemed to work well.

Lastly, just to get started - you can try "Nothing in Life for Free", which is a very humane way of gently reinfocing your position as leader. Your dog is probably skittish and frightened (due to his prior life) and a strong leader my help him calm down.

Nothing in Life is Free Gaining control of your dog humanely

Keep us posted! You can do it with patience and consistency.

marcie · 08-09-2011, 07:26 AM

I hope things go well with you and the pup. Please do not give up yet.

07-31-2011, 07:47 AM	#1
hola_lola YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Cleveland, OH, USA Posts: 2	My heart is breaking... Please advise on what to do with this doggie. Hello everyone. I've been a silent reader for a couple weeks now, and finally decided to post. My sister bought a yorkie last year when I was still away at college. Everyone knew it was a bad idea as my sister travels extensively for work and the pup wouldn't be cared for properly. Everyone was right. The dog was never walked, spent most of the day in her cage or basement, poops and pees in the house resulting in even more time in the basement, has only been taken to the vet once when she got fleas from the neighbor's cat, never taken for grooming... etc. My sister is due to have a baby and doesn't want the dog in the house around her newborn. The dog still poops and pees in the house, runs away whenever the front door opens and has to be chased around the neighborhood, barks uncontrollably at the sight of another animal or sound of something loud outside. I feel for her, so now that I'm done with school and settling into my first apartment, I'm willing to take her. I work from 8:30 to 5:30, so I take the dog out as much as I can in the morning and evenings when I'm here. Still, she goes in the house. I don't know what to do. I let her sleep with me instead of locking her in the basement as was done previously, yet she still barks uncontrollably. I've come to love this dog so much and take proper care of her, but she just won't learn. If things don't improve, I will have to give her away, which will tear me up inside. Please help me.

08-02-2011, 12:46 AM	#2
Ahis_Mama Living In Paradise! Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Ewa Beach on the island of Oahu Posts: 3,588	Bump... __________________ Aloha & Have a wonderful day! Roni~ Ahi Shibi Roxie Heart Alize & Prada

08-02-2011, 03:19 AM	#3
susan lynn Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Georgia Posts: 3,262	This poor baby, it is a blessing he has someone to love him and take care of him. There is a lot of great information on YT about how to train an older dog , you just have to start like he is a puppy. He may not be to old for to put in classes to help teach him the basics. You cand type in potty training in the search area and it will give you lots of threads to read.Welcome to YT. __________________ SUSAN : TESSIE : HOBBES :CALVIN :SASSY There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face! ~ Ben Williams

08-02-2011, 04:51 AM	#4
LisaD YT Addict Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Georgia Posts: 250	You have come to the right place. There is lots of info here. I know it is hard, but, don't give up on her yet. Just be consistant (sounds like you are doing that). It will take time to undo what has or has not been done. I have taken in puppy mill moms and dads ALOT and they are tough to train. But, it is SOOO worth the effort when you finally get them there. She may not ever have it down perfect, but, if she is only a year old, she can be trained and you can do it. Just read, talk to people and pet classes would be wonderful. Even the ones at PetSmart will do just fine...make sure there is a good trainer first. MEet witht hem and talk to them before signing up. Hang in there, I know it is tough, but YOU CAN DO THIS!!! __________________ Lisa,Tink,and Peanut ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

08-02-2011, 04:58 AM	#5
gemy YT 2000 Club Donating Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Huntsville,Ont,Canaada Posts: 12,335 Blog Entries: 2	Welcome to YT. I think that in this case it would be best to go to obedience classes, hire a trainer. There are a number of ways you can do this. Look up in the area dog clubs, often times their name will tell you if they do obedience, for eg; Cleveland Dog Obedience club. Petsmart will sometimes put on obedience classes. An older dog can still be trained, it is almost never too late!. Rule out for your pup medical issues, by discussing with your vet her behaviours and see what your vet suggests. Your vet may also know of a good dog trainer in your area as well. There is a saying that is very true; A tired dog is a good dog! So maybe see if you can exercise her in the evening before bedtime. Try a walk but also some toy play. See if you can have a dog walker come in to walk her mid day if your schedule doesnèt permit that. For the barking there are many threads on here on how to train a dog to limit their barking. It does take time and patience, but it is very rewarding when you see or hear progress. __________________ Razzle and Dara. Our clan. RIP Karma Dec 24th 2004-July 14 2013 RIP Zoey Jun9 th 2008-May 12 2012. RIP Magic,Mar 26 2006July 1st 2018

08-07-2011, 02:51 PM	#6
sugarglass Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Milton Keynes, UK Posts: 30	i think its wonderful what you're doing. keep it up and don't lose faith!!! this doggie really needs you and even though she may not show it right now, i'm sure she is eternally grateful you pulled her out of the basement! the more damaged they are, the longer it will take for them to heal. have patience and keep up the training, she will come around. going through all the training together and learning together will sure the bond between you two. i have no doubt when she comes out of her shell she will love you and will become a perfect dog. ^_^

08-07-2011, 02:55 PM	#7
Lil Sis Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: South Florida Posts: 8,008	don't give up on the pup. Have you checked into training classes..maybe at the local community college? You are doing the right thing! __________________ Shinja mom to Remy lil Sis to Bailey and Sammy

08-07-2011, 03:08 PM	#8
DvlshAngel985 Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Los Angeles, California, USA Posts: 12,693	I have one question, does the pup have free roam of the house? If she is not potty trained and is allowed to run around freely, she will make mistakes. I would understand if you would be against crating, because of her past home, but there are alternatives. Confine her to the kitchen, a bathroom(with a baby gate and not the door, so she can still see out) or an expen. Inside her "room" she will need 3 areas, a spot designated for potty (pads) an area for sleep/play, and an area for eating. With her, your pretty much starting from square one, just like you would with a new puppy. When your home and able to watch her at all times, let her roam after she has already pottied. Set up a predictable schedule for her. With time, she will come to know what are her potty times and go according to schedule. __________________ Littlest JakJak We miss you Kaji

08-07-2011, 03:22 PM	#9
jan cleveland Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Riverside, CA Posts: 25	I think you should try to crate train the dog. However, the dog needs to go out at frequent intervals. Any possibility you can come home at lunch? You could always bring in a trainer and see if they could help. About 20 years ago I had a puppy and didn't know what to do. The trainer came up with an idea. I used an xpen part in and part out on the patio. The puppy was at least doing her business outside and I could hose it down.

08-07-2011, 03:48 PM	#10
gidget529 Gidget & Sidney's Mom Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: PA Posts: 3,462	Hi. Welcome. I would recommend getting a "playpen" type apparatus to confine her until she learns better potty manners. I used Sea Breeze Petite Pens (they have a web site). They are adjustable pens that can fold up to travel, and they are sturdy metal. These worked like a charm to give the pup room to play, have her bed, but be confined w a pee pad in case she had a mistake. __________________ Mommy to Gidget, Sidney & Cricket(RIP)

08-07-2011, 05:08 PM	#11
hola_lola YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Cleveland, OH, USA Posts: 2	Wow, thanks for your replies. She does have free roam of the house when I'm there, but before she would be in the basement for a good portion of the day, which I hate doing. I have doggy potty pads and she uses them sometimes, but doesn't other times. We are developing a good routine for going outside, so she's getting better! I do want to ask about her running away, though. Has anyone else experienced this issue? Thanks again everyone!

08-07-2011, 05:09 PM	#12
DvlshAngel985 Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Los Angeles, California, USA Posts: 12,693	For that you need training. Do you do any obedience training with her? And when you say free roam, do you watch her 100% of the time? __________________ Littlest JakJak We miss you Kaji

08-07-2011, 05:57 PM	#13
Ringo1 Ringo (1) and Lucy too! Donating Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: On the Edge of Glory Posts: 3,447	I think you are starting from square one - as if you had a tiny puppy. She probably should not have free reign of the house until you can get her housebroken. I understand your reluctance to use the crate - but it's still better than having to rehome her if you aren't able to get her under control. I also think xpen would be a good idea if you are totally opposed to the crate. When she does go outside (I'm assuming you are training her outside) - PRAISE HER like crazy! Have a big old praise party and some REALLY GOOD treats ~ the NANOSECOND she pees or poops. She'll catch on quickly. I have a nice blanket and toys inside Lucy's crate and a blanket over top of it (like a den) and she loves to sleep in there - so maybe it won't be so bad. Regarding a dog that runs outside - my Westie will - everytime. I learned the concept of training him to stay out the entire area surrounding the door (that's MY space) by watching Cesar Milan. I don't use all his methods - but physically keeping Ringo out of that space by using my body - seemed to work well. Lastly, just to get started - you can try "Nothing in Life for Free", which is a very humane way of gently reinfocing your position as leader. Your dog is probably skittish and frightened (due to his prior life) and a strong leader my help him calm down. Nothing in Life is Free Gaining control of your dog humanely Keep us posted! You can do it with patience and consistency. __________________ Mommy to Lucy, Ringo, and Matthew

08-09-2011, 07:26 AM	#14
marcie and Lucy too Donating Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: ohio Posts: 6,325	I hope things go well with you and the pup. Please do not give up yet.