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Rescue dog toileting issue, Melbourne (VIC)

Rescue dog toileting issue, Melbourne (VIC)

I have recently adopted a dog from the RSPCA in Melbourne. He is a Papillon / Pomeranian (we think)and about 18 months old. He is very timid and does not come when called unless I get down to his level. Is this something that will subside over time and as he gets more confident in his new surroundings? Also, he seems to be able to hold on for 5 - 10 hours in the evening after eating to do a poo. I feed him his larger meal (dry food) in the morning and a smaller meal (wet)at night. He was very good initially going just before bed at about 10.30pm but he has now started to wait until 4 in the morning. While he goes where I have left paper I would really like to stop this behaviour before it becomes a habit. Grateful for any advice.
Posted: 14/01/2010

Reply: Rescue dog toileting issue, Melbourne (VIC)
Well done in adopting a doggy - and they are in the pound for a reason, which you may not know the details of. The timidness will go as the dog settles in with you and confidence builds. Use soft inviting voice and no shouting. Learn to call the dog from a crouched position and when the dog comes in your direction, stand up slowly, so eventually you can do this standing. It takes about 5-8 hours for the digestive cycle to be completed (depends on food), so play with the hours you feed him (2x/day is great) and we recommend dry food all the time. Toileting will also settle when the dogs' routine is settled. Make toileting before bed time a real feast, with lots of rewards and praise when he does go and keep doing that till habit has been formed.
Posted: 14/01/2010

In Melbourne? See dog trainers in Melbourne.

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