Can someone please help? I have a 4 month old ****-zu cross who has many bad habits. From 12 weeks (when we got her) we have been using training mats, which she uses but still has accidents around the house sometimes and it is driving me crazy because it stinks.

I take her for long walks but only once a day, however we have a lovely large garden that she refuses to go in as the neighbours have a large dog and she is petrified of it and runs in when it barks. It has got to the point where she just yelps at the door when I put her out.

Another bad habit she has is that she eats her stools. I was told by the vet that this is because she knows she isn't getting enough vitamins so tries to get it from the poo! So I often give her cubes of fruit, but she still does it.

Any advice on these problems would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Puppy mats only confuse dogs more. You are allowing them to pee on something soft in the house, so to them, why wouldn't it be okay to pee every where else?

Is there a specific reason you are using the puppy pads? Is taking him out side on a regular basis not something you can do? There are many great house breaking tips, have a look at the stickies on the top of the dog forum, there is some great training tips located there. If you need anything more specific, just ask.

When he does make a mess, make sure you are washing the area with a neutralizing spray. Vinegar and water works great too, as does shaving cream and baby shampoo.