[JennieK06]

I could really use some help! I have a ten year old chihuahua, neutered. I bought him when I was a teenager and my grandparents kept him when I moved out. He was always "mine" but he stayed with my grandmother before I could keep him. Well, she NEVER worked on house training! I've had him for about the past five years and got him mostly house trained. Then, I had to go back home (husband is military) for about four months and nobody, except her, would let him in the house. Now, he has back to not being house trained at all. He pees on EVERYTHING and poops everywhere. I try to keep doors closed, but with two young kids, that is very difficult.

Does anyone have any ideas on what I can do to make him house trained? We crate when not in the home and try to keep baby gates up so he doesn't have access to our carpet. He literally pees inside at least 3-5 times a day. I'm at a loss. I can't invite people over people I am worried he will pee on their shoes or that our house smells like urine. Please help!! He will even pee on my bed when we are sleeping! I've had to shampoo my mattress more times than I can count and have gone through countless pillows because he keeps peeing on them.

[Alty]

Thankfully you actually can teach an old dog new tricks, it just takes a while longer because you're dealing with a dog that already has well established bad habits.

Consistency is key. You have to start from scratch. Every time you take him out to pee, you go with him. Use a potty word. When he goes potty, tons of praise, a treat, let him know that he's a very good dog and that this is what you want him to do.

If you catch him in the act in the house, a firm NO and then take him directly outside. Crating at night is best, that should help avoid any accidents on your bed.

This isn't going to work overnight, it can take months, and will largely depend on how much effort you put in, and how consistent you are.

Good luck.