Dog lifting

Question
I have a 6 year old Rat Terrier.  I got him when he was 3 years old.  His problem is lifting in the house.  Not just lifting on furniture.  He will get on our bed and lift on my pillow and lift on my sons bed.  The crazy thing is I have never been able to catch him to scold him.  He especially does it when I am gone.  It is so frustrating.  I just dont know what to do,  I feel like I have to watch him every second when I am home.  Should he be crated and when.....Thank you,  Donna

Answer
Your dog appears to be marking most likely out of separation anxiety (as you appear to have said he does it when you're not at home).  Scolding him isn't going to work; it will make it worse.  Confine him to the kitchen with a soft bed, water and a couple of safe toys (a small kong with a tiny bit of peanut butter will keep him busy) when you are NOT at home; when you are at home, keep all bedroom doors closed and keep the dog in the same room you are in.  If you observe him sidling up to an object to mark it, interrupt him by clapping your hands (do NOT yell at him) and then take him outdoors.  Reinforce his house training (just for good measure) by going out with him and reward/praise his appropriate elimination. I'm assuming this leg lifting has been going on for THREE YEARS NOW? If it's just started, the dog may be reacting to the scent of a bitch in season within miles of your home.  Even a neutered dog responds to these pheromones.