I have a Boxer that is about 11 years old. She is beginning ot have some obvious health problems, but I still think she's able to function and without pain. We have begun bringing her in the house since its colder weather and her back legs are starting to bother her. She has always been in the house somewhat so this is not a new concept for her. Within in the last week she has begun to mess all over the house. She has NEVER done this before, and I can't figure out why she's doing it now. Even more confusing is that she'll bark when she wants to go out, but sometimes won't go potty at all! What is going on? Is it age or what? :confused:

11 is old for a Boxer. It sounds to me like she does have a physical problem. The vet may be able to help her. My 14 year old Lab had an incontinence problem earlier this year. A capsule a week from the vet fixed the problem. Call yours.

Thank you so much for your help. I have avoided taking her to the vet because I am afraid that they will tell me that the only solution is to put her to sleep. I will let you know how it goes.

My way of looking at it is this: You take her to the vet, and they either say that there is something they can do (yay!), or there isn't. If there isn't something they can do medically, then you have to look at whether it's a behavioral issue, or just a non-treatable physical problem. Either way, you are in no worse position than you are right now without having gone to the vet.

Okay... here is an update. I am going to take her to the vet tomorrow. I think the problem may be more medical and less behavioral though. I was going to actually go to bed early and she barked to go outside two times in a row, less than 5 min. apart. When I took her outside I was careful to give her PLENTY of time and she went not once but 5 times altogether between the two visits outside. I have done some research and have begun to wonder if maybe she has a UTI or something. Any suggestions? I am so worried about her, but she does not seem to be in pain when using the bathroom.?

She may very well be suffering from a UTI. Easily remedied with medication. Only way to know for sure is through a visit to the vet. Keep us posted as to what the vet says.:)

Just to let everyone know... my dog might have a bladder infection. The vet said that's what he thought it was. I got some medicine for her and can't wait for her to get back to normal. Most of all, he said she was old and has some serious tumors which is evidently common for Boxers. :( THANKS FOR EVERYONE'S HELP!

You are welcome jj. I hope that this is what it is, and meds will clear up the problem. Yes the tumors are common in boxers and dogs related to that breed. Most are just fatty or benign tumors. Unless the vet feels it is necessary to biopsy any of them, please don't worry. They won't have any adverse affect on her.