If you've provided crate training for your dog, but he still defecates there, there are a variety of reasons behind it. Your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety, have a medical problem that affects bowel control, or he may not understand that the crate is not the right place to go. There are several things you can do to prevent your dog from urinating in his crate.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Changing the Cage
Step 1. Check that the cage is the right size
Dogs often defecate in cages because they are too big. If the crate is too large for your dog to comfortably defecate in a corner, he may choose this option instead of waiting to be taken out.
- The kennel should be large enough so that he can stand, turn around and lie down with his legs outstretched. If the crate is larger than that, the dog may be tempted to use the crate as a toilet.
- If you have puppies, choose a crate that can accommodate your dog as he grows up. Dog kennels are quite expensive and you don't want to change the crate every year. To work around this so the crate doesn't look too big, you can partially cover the crate with cardboard, styrofoam, or other pup-safe material.
Step 2. Feed the dog in the crate
Most likely, the dog will not defecate in the same place where it eats. Feeding dogs in a cage can be one solution.
- You don't need to lock your dog in a crate at mealtimes because the stress of being confined can affect his appetite. Simply place the food in the cage and leave the door open.
- At first, your dog may feel wary of entering the crate to eat because he has a suspicion that you will leave him and try to lure him into the crate. If you leave food in the crate and go about your normal daily activities, your dog will gradually want to touch the food.
Step 3. Change the bedding in the cage
By changing the type of blanket in the crate or adding an extra blanket, you are more likely to be able to persuade your dog not to defecate in the crate.
- If there isn't a bed in the crate, you can add a comfortable bed or blankets so your dog doesn't use the crate as a toilet. Dogs won't pee where they can curl up comfortably and sleep.
- On the other hand, if you have placed the bed in the crate, but the dog is hiding its droppings under it, remove the bed. If your dog can't easily hide his droppings, he may be less likely to go to the crate.
- Don't leave paper mats in the crate, especially if your dog has been trained to defecate on paper.
Step 4. Clean up the “crash” thoroughly
Every time your dog defecates in the crate, clean the area thoroughly. Use an enzymatic cleaner that is usually sold at pet stores or supermarkets. By eliminating the smell of feces, dogs are less likely to use the same place to defecate again.
Method 2 of 3: Changing the Dog's Schedule
Step 1. Provide crate training before you leave your dog alone in the crate
If you've just started leaving your dog alone in the crate and he's pooping in there, the problem may be that he's not used to the crate. Your dog must be introduced to the crate gradually before you can safely leave it in the crate.
- Give your dog a few days to get used to the crate. Persuade the dog to come in sometimes, but don't close the door. Make the cage a pleasant experience by giving him food and praise every time he enters the cage.
- Once your dog is used to the crate, you can lock it up for a short period of time. Start with a short duration, such as leaving it in the cage for 10 minutes at the start of your workout, then gradually increase the duration.
- Once your dog is able to spend 30 minutes in the crate without feeling anxious or afraid, you can lock him up for a longer period of time. You have to be firm when you leave it. Don't delay your departure by saying a long "goodbye" as this can make the dog's anxiety about being left alone even worse.
- You can gradually extend the time your dog is alone in the crate until he can be left there all night and while you go to work.
Step 2. Make a consistent outing schedule
If your dog has problems urinating in the crate, it may not be consistent enough on his walking schedule. Make sure you walk your dog regularly so that he has no other choice and is forced to pee in the crate.
- Leaving your dog outdoors is not necessarily effective in teaching him to poop outside. When training him to poop outside, stay with him and praise him every time he goes to a toilet. If you don't take this step, he may see the outdoors as a place to play and won't take the opportunity to go to the bathroom.
- Dogs need less or more time outdoors, depending on their age. If your dog is less than 12 weeks old, you should take him outside once an hour during the day and every 3-4 hours at night.
- As you get older, you can gradually lengthen the intervals for your walks. When he is 6-7 months old, you should take him outside every 4 hours during the day and every 8 hours at night. Adult dogs should be taken out of the house at least 3 times a day and one of them should be of a longer duration.
- Consistency is the key to success. Try to walk the dog at the same time each day. The dog's body will adjust to a regular schedule. That way, the chance of an accident will be less.
Step 3. Create a consistent daily eating schedule
You should also feed him on a regular schedule. Limiting bonus meals and snacks between meals can lead to bowel problems. Eating can stimulate the intestines about 20 minutes later. Don't give your dog food and then lock him in the crate right away, as he may struggle to contain himself. Instead, give him the opportunity to pee outside the house, about 20-30 minutes after eating.
- The amount of food your dog needs will depend on his breed, size, and any medical conditions he may have. You can consult with your veterinarian about the right portion of food for dogs. After that, you can decide how to distribute the food through the eating schedule throughout the day.
- If you lock your dog up all night, do not give him food or water 3 hours before his bedtime schedule. If you lock your dog up during the day while you work, extend his walk in the morning so he has a chance to pee after breakfast.
Step 4. Use positive and negative affirmations
Using both positive and negative affirmations can help your dog learn not to pee in the crate.
- When you walk your dog outside, don't forget to praise him every time he goes to the bathroom. Use verbal compliments like, "Smart dog!", you can also bring a bonus snack in return.
- If you see your dog getting ready to pee in the crate, clap your hands and say, "No!" Then, take the dog outside so he can defecate there.
- Remember, dogs live in the present moment. If you wake up in the morning and find your dog pooping in the crate, scolding him at that time may not do any good. The dog will not understand why you are scolding him. You should also refrain from scolding him excessively or yelling aggressively as this can cause anxiety in the dog and make the problem worse. Never stick your dog's nose in his feces or urine as this will only make the dog feel irritated and confused.
Method 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Make an appointment with the vet
You have to make sure that there is no underlying medical problem. Make an appointment with your veterinarian and have him do regular physical exams on your dog.
- If your dog has loose stools or diarrhea, he may have a digestive problem that requires medical attention. Your veterinarian may order blood tests or x-rays to determine what type of treatment is needed.
- Older dogs often have age-related bowel control problems. If your dog is old, your vet may order tests to determine if your dog is still able to control his bowels. Your doctor may suggest treatment options if this is the case.
Step 2. Recognize the signs of separation anxiety
Dogs often defecate in the cage because of the anxiety of separation. Recognize the signs of separation anxiety and what to do if your dog experiences them.
- If the poop is accompanied by constant howling, barking, pacing, and your dog has ever escaped from the crate or tried, he may be experiencing separation anxiety. If you've recently changed your daily schedule, moved house, or the arrival of a new roommate/family member, your dog may experience anxiety in response to these changes.
- Use positive affirmations, such as food bonuses and praise, during these stressful situations to help reduce anxiety. For example, you can leave toys or food when you leave the house. Many pet stores sell puzzle-type toys that require the dog to find a solution in order to be able to open the toy and pick up a bonus treat or toy as a gift. Toys like these can distract your dog if he's anxious when you're not home.
- You can also ask your vet for various treatment solutions. Your doctor may recommend medication or an exercise program that can help your dog deal with anxiety.
Step 3. Be careful if you want to change your dog's diet
Any changes in a dog's diet can cause bowel control problems. If you recently changed the type or brand of food, your dog could have problems controlling bowel movements. Make food transitions gradually, starting by mixing small amounts of the new food into the old food and gradually increasing the portions.
Tips
If these bowel problems are related to anxiety, contact a professional dog trainer for help. However, the cost may be high
Warning
- Check the crate to make sure there are no sharp corners that could injure the dog. Dogs with turning eyes, such as Pekingese, often suffer eye injuries from sticking wires. So, make sure there are no sharp edges.
- Remove the dog's leashes or leash while he is in the crate. This equipment may present a choking risk.
