2 yo rescue is fouling her crate
2 months ago, we adopted a 2 year old Jack Russell Terrier. She's a sweet dog and gets along great with our kids. She also seems to be super calm; loves to lay on the bed and relax.
Housebreaking is a problem though, when we're not around. Here's the story:
She was a breeder's dog and had a kennel with a doggy door to a run, she was fed free choice as she could go out at any time. She doesn't play either; probably never was taught as a pup.
We have been getting her on a schedule for feedings and bathroom. She now goes when we let her out (at first she just wanted to come in, then would need to go out shortly after.. free choice there too). We make a big deal every time she does her business outside!
The first night, we crated her in the kitchen and she yipped and wailed. We caved on the second night and brought the crate upstairs (we like her up with us anyway).
The first time we left her alone for about 1 1/2 hours, she pooped in her crate (wire type) and kicked the mess out around the kitchen. We got home and had to wash her, the bedding, the crate and clean the kitchen. We tried a few more times, but gave up on the crate (our bad).
Next we tried penning of a small area for her... same results although she had a couple days with nothing, but many more with a mess. She actually steps in it and tracks it through the area.
We also tried giving her the whole kitchen; she still pooped, but usually didn't track it. The whole (or half) kitchen is not so good since we caught her on the table and counter... she could get hurt (knocked the coffee pot out of the coffee maker).
Today we went back to the crate while at work (6 hours at the most). We left out the bedding and she made a mess, pooping and then kicking it out.
We also were feeding her too much and now feed the right amount; once a day in the afternoon. She goes out an hour after eating (and goes) and a couple more times in the evening (number 1). We get her up early and she goes out and does both; we also try to have her go once more, but only #1 if anything. I can't see how she has any left in her. I've never heard of soiling the crate!
She's a great dog, if only she would hold it. I think we need to stick with the crate and give it more time.
Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions?
Thank you,
Rokko