My 9-year-old Dachshund, who’s always been well-trained and my best friend, has recently started peeing in the nursery (our baby is 3 months old). While she seems okay with the baby itself, I understand that this might be a way for her to seek attention.
Can anyone share tips on how to address this behavior in an older dog? I am eager to find solutions that help both my dog and my baby feel comfortable and secure in our home.
It’s not uncommon for older dogs to exhibit changes in behavior, such as peeing in the house, which can sometimes be a sign of attention-seeking or underlying medical issues. Here are some steps you can take to address this behavior:
Medical Check-Up: Rule out any potential medical problems that could be causing incontinence1.
Consistent Schedule: Maintain a regular routine for feeding, walks, and bathroom breaks to provide stability.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for good behavior and use positive reinforcement to encourage proper bathroom habits.
Attention and Interaction: Ensure your dog gets enough attention and mental stimulation throughout the day.
Professional Advice: Consider consulting a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) for personalized guidance.
Environmental Management: Keep the nursery door closed or use baby gates to prevent access when unsupervised.
Clean-Up: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering odors that might attract your dog back to the same spot.
well To address your Dachshund’s recent peeing in the nursery, likely due to seeking attention or feeling anxious with the new baby, spend dedicated one-on-one time with your dog daily and reinforce good behavior with treats and praise.