Hi, I just got a new rescue Lab lab mix about 3 weeks ago named Rocky. He's about 10-12 months old. I recently signed him up for obedience class and his 1st one is Wednesday. He started out as my brothers family's dog but his 3 year old boy was too rough with him and I decided to take him in so he would not have to go back in a shelter. I'm working with him and trying to get him on a regular schedule. It's to the point where when he comes in from outside he heads right over to the cabinet his treats are on and puts his front paws on it expecting a treat. He is caged overnight and while I'm at work. However, he does not like being in his cage at all. He knows when it's coming and conveniently stops listening when I call him. The biggest problem are his bathroom habits. He goes outside but without warning he will will pee a little when inside. I know he doesn't have have to go or can hold it because he keeps his cage clean. I'll see a little squirt on the floor or even on his pillow. When he wants to squirt he'll do it regardless of where he is. He'll do it 30 minutes and just having taken care of his business outside too. The odd thing is though he never did this at my brothers place. He lived there about a month before I took him in. Lastly yesterday I was playing with him and I have an envelope in my hand and raised it over my head. Rocky saw this and reacted as if he were going to be hit. This is the 1st time I've seen him do this. Does this mean that he was more than likely being abused before being found and ending up at the shelter? He's the friendliest dog. He shadows me where ever I go and loves to snuggle up close whether I'm on the couch or in bed. He's completely taken over the chair in the Florida room. Can someone offer me some advice and how to deal with his bathroom issues? I have that spray that's suppose to cover up his scent but it doesn't matter. I put down pee pads but all he does with those is shred them. Really hoping someone can help me out to break him of this. Thanks in advance.
Some dogs pee a little when they're excited or nervous. It's not uncommon especially at his age and if he's been passed around a bit. He'll need many weeks to settle in and if his peeing is nerves it may take even longer. My brothers dog used to pee when people came into the house for many, many months and she had a single, safe, secure home. For his dislike of his crate you can try and desensitise him to it. Make it the source of great things. Dinner, toys, rewards for going in without closing the door. Lots and lots of positive associations. Best of luck with him, really hope he's found his place in the world.
