[jackobean]

I have a 8 week old german short haired pointer pup we are going to crate train har as we have the other 2 dogs. She is quite good going out with the other dogs to the toilet and good when we are in the house she even whines at the door which is a massive relief.

But

Now when I go to pick up children from school or pop to the shop she poos in the crate she doe not do this overnight or wee and I make sure she goes out to the toilet before I go out. How do I stop this prob before it isa habit

[labman]

Try leaving her a Kong filled with peanut butter. She may be too busy licking it out to be stressed over you leaving. As she gains confidence you will return, she should improve. Improve your bonding with her using the exercises:

''Elevation for small puppies: Sit on the floor and gently put your hands around your pup's middle, below his front legs, and lift him up. He is facing you. Hold him for 15 seconds. Repeat until he no longer struggles. If he is past 10-12 weeks, lift his front feet off the ground, but don't pick him up.

Cradling for small puppies: Hold your puppy gently on his back, as you would cradle a small baby. If he struggles, hold him firmly until he quiets for 10-15 seconds. With larger pups, you can do this as your sit on the floor, with your pup between your legs.

Quiet lying down: Place your pup on the floor on his side, with all 4 legs pointing away from you. Use your hands on his neck/shoulder area and middle, to hold him in this position. When he is quiet, praise him. Lengthen the time that you keep him quietly in this position. When he accepts this position well, handle his paws and muzzle, while keeping him quiet.''

The quotes mean this isn't my original work. It is copied from my Puppy Raising Manual. I have long used these or minor variations of them, and they are very effective. You may want to give him a belly rub while he is on his back too. Helps bonding. There is a big difference between him rolling over and demanding a belly rub, and you choosing a time to roll him over and rub his belly. The latter cements your place as pack leader.