My mom passed away from cancer last month, and I promised her I’d take her dog to live with me. He’s 10 years old, and we’ve known each other for years since I lived with him before moving out.
I work from 7 AM to 5:30 PM, so he’s alone for a long time, and I think he has separation anxiety. My mom was always home with him, so he’s not used to this.
Each morning, I let him out to pee and poop, then feed him, but it’s only about 20 minutes. By the time I come home, there’s poop or pee on the floor, usually around 11 AM. I have a camera and see he spends the day barking, whining, and wandering around. He never had accidents before, even as a puppy.
I’ve tried leaving the TV on and closing the curtains, but nothing helps. How can I get him to stop this? Any ideas would really help.
Dogs can grieve too, and it sounds like he’s feeling lonely and confused. He might need more time outside in the mornings or even a longer walk to help tire him out.
If he’s just let out to do his thing, that might not be enough. Dogs love interaction, like playing fetch or going on a walk. When I had a similar issue, spending more time playing in the yard helped a lot. It sounds like he might need a mix of exercise and attention to feel better.
Hiring a walker could really help. Also, 20 minutes in the morning might not be enough for a 10-year-old dog. Tiring him out more could make a big difference.
At his age, it’s normal for senior dogs to need to go more often. If he’s going around 11 AM, that’s about 4-5 hours after being let out, which is pretty typical. A dog walker around that time could solve the issue.
You’re right. My mom wasn’t able to walk him much in her last years, and he’s used to just going out quickly. Looks like I’ll need to find someone to help during the day.
Maybe try waking up earlier to give him more time outside. Some dogs need to go right after eating, so a second potty break might help. Hiring someone to let him out mid-morning is also a great idea.
He’s grieving and in a new environment. He’s probably used to more interaction and walks during the day. Consider hiring a walker a few times a week and give him extra love when you’re home. Also, close the curtains and try leaving the radio on.
Give him something that smells like your mom, like her pillow. It could comfort him. Also, look up videos on training dogs with separation anxiety. Filling a Kong with treats could keep him distracted.
Try letting him out after feeding. Some dogs get the urge to go right after eating. Also, make sure he’s fully emptying himself. My golden often poops twice during walks.
Dogs often don’t fully empty themselves when rushed. Longer walks can help them go multiple times. Also, it’s not fair to expect him to hold it all day; imagine if you couldn’t use the bathroom at work. A walker or sitter would be a big help.