Dog only goes to the bathroom when we leave

[ashley2727]

We just adopted a Rottweiler that is 4 years old form the pound.  The first day we brought her home she was fine, but now everytime we leave she goes tot he bathroom in the basement.  She won't go potty outside for us unless we take her for long walks.  Does she need to be re- potty trained?

[JDS2805]

Possibly. Dogs need to be taught a routine especially with going to the bathroom. It could also be something called separation anxiety- certain dogs will respond in certain ways. Is there any way you could find out the dogs history before adopting it? That might give you a better idea.

[Misfits4Me]

Does she need to be re- potty trained?  

First- you have no way of knowing if she was potty trained to begin with.......
Second- shelter life affects dogs potty habits and emotional state, immensely!!!

If you've only had her a few days or weeks, she has not had time to get over her past trauma and adjust to her new schedule, yet..... She may feel so insecure that she thinks your not coming back......Time, patience, & positive reinforcement will get this girl on the right track......

*She may get so excited when she hears you coming home, that she pee-pees upon your arrival!!!!  
That's a good sign, as she is already beginning to trust you......Take her out (To Potty) regularly and reward her when she does it outside.....It won't be long; she'll understand what she needs to do......Good luck and thanks for adopting instead of buying........Karla

[seeana]

Imagine if you loved your family and they deserted you ! it would be devastating she thinks every time you leave you are not coming back to her, put your self in her mind ! how would she know otherwise .

How long do you leave her on her own ? how often? and she is not left alone just in the basement is she (sorry had to ask) She has got separation anxiety and she is in her own private hell poor darling.It will take a while to get her trust just give her plenty of love.and cuddles.
This could work !when you come home do not tell her off as she is getting your attention
just look at the mistake then at he... do not say a word and turn your back and keep turning your back to her for about 10min then take her  for a walk still a bit cool then when she does go make a huge fuss of her and tell her how pleased .you are with her.
Do this when ever she does it indoors she will soon realise she cant punish you and you will ignore her.if she does this.
Oh just dont send her back to the pound lol.







Dogs hate being ignored