[Luvebuggy99]

I have a 5 month old chihuahua, he is very excitable and when guests come over he jumps on the couch with them and pees all over them and my couch. I tried spraying him lightly with a bottle of water and crating him per another suggestion from a friend, but was told that is not the correct way since he doesn't understand what he has done wrong. I'm not sure what to do but I don't like him peeing all over my couch and guests.

[starbuck8]

How do you act when friends come over, and how do you try and control your dog to stop him? It starts at the door, or actually sometimes even before they arrive. Are you nervous or anxious that this is what he is going to do? If you are, he senses this. Your energy passes right to him.

Tell your friends that when they come over, that they are to have no touch, no talk, no eye contact with your dog, when and until he is calm. Ignore him completely when they arrive, and don't come in the door excited.

When the doorbell rings, and he starts rushing the door and barking, warn you friends ahead of time, that it might take you a few minutes. To get to the door. Stand in front of the door like it's your door, and you own it. Stay calm, but be assertive, and give a sharp but authoritative command for your dog go lay down and stay. If he starts to get up again, give the same command, and make him go back.

You can get a friend to help you a few times. Tell them to come and ring the doorbell, and wait until you answer. If your dog gets excited, give the assertive command and send him back to his "spot." Repeat this every time your dog tries to undermine your authority.

This shouldn't be a hard one if you stay consistent. Good luck.