How to Prevent Dogs from Pooping in the House?

Whatever the root cause of your dog inappropriately defecating in the house, punishment is not going to solve the problem. Don't yell at your dog or rub your dog nose with him, as this is not an effective strategy.

Here are some tips on how to stop your dog from defecating in it. If these strategies do not help solve the problem, consult your vet.

Address Underlying Health Conditions

It is important to make an appointment with your veterinarian to look for any possible medical conditions.

Intestinal parasites can be diagnosed by fecal tests and can be easily treated with deworming drugs. In addition, if your pet is at higher risk of exposure to intestinal parasites, they must be given monthly prophylaxis as a form of protection.

For food allergies, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet, such as a hydrolyzed protein or novel protein diet, to see if your pet can tolerate food better.

Ask your vet if you can add daily probiotics to your pet food to help promote a balanced gut microbiome.

Getting Help for Your Dog's Anxiety or Separation Anxiety

Helping your pet with anxiety-related problems usually involves some form of behavior modification or desensitization.

For separation anxiety, the dog must be retrained over time to see being alone in certain periods as a positive thing. Ask your veterinarian about a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist who can help you with pet-specific problems.

Calming supplements can also help with anxiety. If you feel that your pet may need more aggressive treatment, consult your veterinarian.

Get Advice on Age-Related Issues

If your pet begins to show signs of mild dementia or cognitive dysfunction, schedule an examination with your veterinarian. There are medications and special diets for older pets to help them through this new stage of life.

Your vet can also check your dog for any signs of pain or discomfort associated with arthritis, and may recommend joint supplements or pain relievers.

Put Your Dog on Task During Potty Time

If your dog seems distracted by the task of going pooping, you can help them stay on track.

For example, if your pet has been indoors all day, don't play with them when you first get home, but immediately let them out into the yard or start walking. Once they urinate and defecate, praise your dog or treat to reinforce the outside purpose. Then you can play with your dog.

Change Your Dog's Diet Gradually

Any time you change your dog's food brand, or even the same brand of food type, it's important to gradually transition to the new food over at least a week.

First give 25% of the new food and 75% of the old food for two days, then a 50:50 mix for the next two days, then 75% of the new food and 25% of the old food until the transition to the new food is complete.

The gradual transition of this food will reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset. You may also consider adding probiotics to help make this transition smoother and enhance your dog's overall gastrointestinal health.

If you ultimately can't resolve the problem of your dog going to the bathroom in the house, it's advisable to ask your vet or a professional trainer.