Peepee problem

Question
I have a 4 month old Chihuahua who weighs about 3 lbs.! I have had her since she was 9 weeks old. She is now completely house trained and does not ever have accidents in the house. However, my sister-in-law come from out of town to visit and picked up my Chihuahua who proceeded to peepee on my sister-in-law. The other day I took her to have her nails clipped and when I handed her to the groomer my puppy peed all over me, the groomer and the floor. How do I stop this problem?"


Answer
Hi Tammy,

I don't believe you have a serious problem at this point. However, we want to get your puppy on the right track so the issue doesn't worsen as she ages.

It appears you are dealing with her conditioning behavior logically because, reading the notes in your letter, you have thoroughly house trained her in under two months.

First, NEVER correct her for the urination problem you describe in your question. It is not anger, meanness, or anything related--or even close to it that is causing the problem.

I feel it is excitement/nervousness that is triggering the problem for a couple of reasons. (1) she is either being picked up by someone whom she doesn't know or have confidence in or,(2)is being handed over by you to someone she is strange with, and that is sufficient to cause the problem. Remember that at a grooming facility, the area is strange to her, the odors are strong from both cats and dogs, there may be barking, noises, and a host of other internal conditions that could cause your puppy to urinate.

I suggest that your puppy be socialized frequently with people. The more, the better, including all ages. I would not like to see her picked-up by anyone initially, until she really gets to know them and develops a confidence in them. I know that is a hard thing to ask of someone. Everyone wants to hold an adorable puppy like yours. In time, you will be able to accomplish this without problem. But; until your puppy, and the key word here is puppy, mentally matures somewhat from the socializing I suggest, your problem could remain or become worse.

People who love dogs are very understanding. When they approach, explain to them that they are welcome to bend over and gently pet your puppy, or even play with her ON THE GROUND. But, ask them to please not pick her up and explain to them why, if you feel you must.

Remember that she trust you. Others she must develop a trust in before she will allow them to be familiar with her. The same as you or I.

I am not saying she will never be able to be picked-up by anyone, including a stranger. I am saying that you want to condition her by teaching her that all is well when you hand her to someone, or they pick her up. This will take a little time but you can and will do it if you follow my suggestion.

I wish you good luck. Please keep me advised.

Harry