[Jackomom]

I have a cavalier who's almost 2 and a 11 yr old golden. Almost a month ago we ended up with a rescued kitten. The dogs seem to like her. The golden doesn't interact much but the cavalier is frequently checking on her and plays well with her. The first week there were no problems but after that week it seems as if the cavalier quit potty training. In retrospect I somewhat regret taking in the kitten (tho she's been great) because the timing was not good for the cavalier. The cavs been babied all her life and very well behaved. At the same time of when we got the kitten my 4 kids went back to school and I too was gone 2days a week (change) we also have been moving bedrooms around in the house so that was additional change. Lastly my cavalier was in heat. Not something she's not familiar with but still yet another thing added to the mix. I figure she's upset and proving it in this manner. It happens when I'm gone and at home. Im constantly dreading what she may have done pretty much every time I turn my back on her. She's never been crated but I'm considering it only concerned shell be more upset by it. It won't help when we're home but less worry for at night and when we're gone. I've not changed my behavior towards her since the kitten. She's still my baby and we as a family have put extra effort into letting her see that. Though with all the messes I'll admit I'm very frustrated with her. Simply put I can't have her dirtying our home like this. Please help!!

[Lucky098]

Purchase a crate and use it.

That is a lot of change for a dog.. Figure out a good potty schedule and stick to it. Close all room doors and have her go out frequently while you are home..

Adult dogs who "forget" their potty training are actually pretty easy to turn around.

1. use a crate. If you cannot watch her, she should go in a kennel. Crates keep good dogs good and keeps mistakes either gone or in one area.

2. don't make a big deal about the messes she makes. Dogs who love attention will take negative reactions as attention. Just act like it never happened.. clean it up with an enzyme-based cleaner and go on about your business. If you catch her in the act, scold her and put her outside while you clean it up.. if you come across a puddle or a poo, just clean it up without a sound.

3. Any change in behavior, such as this, should be looked at by a vet. There may be something brewing in her that she isn't showing. Infection, pain.. sometimes dogs act out when they're uncomfortable. If she is tested clear by a vet, than continue with the first two steps.

Good luck with her.