Bischon

Question
QUESTION: My 6 yr old Bischon has started to poop in the house.  He has addisons disease and is being treated monthly with a percorten shot.  He just started doing this a couple of months ago.  His addisons is stable, he has lots of energy and is usually a loveable guy so I don't think his health problem is the issue.  I was told by the breeder that sometimes this breed is spiteful.  He has done his business when I'm home and when we've been gone.  I have been told he is extemely spoiled and I must admit he is catered to. (he is catered to more by my husband than myself)  I'm beside myself and I'm ready to take some drastic action...like finding another home for him.  My heart tells me I can't do that but my common sense is telling me that my house cannot be a litter box for a dog.  Please advise. He is ruining my carpeting and my valuable rugs.  He did it twice today...once while we were home and the next time when we were gone.  The first time the stools were firm and some were runny and mucous like and when we were gone, the stool was runny and full of mucous.

ANSWER: Alex
this dog cant actually help his actions, he is unwell. When a stoll has mucous and runny its simply the case he isnt well.
Please calm down and dont scold the dog for simply being ill.

Take to vet and reduce feed to 1 per day.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm somewhat confused by your answer.  My dog was very good and would always go outside to do his business.  I understand that I have a sick dog but what I need is direction on how to handle this behavior.  He usually lets us know when he has to go outside.  What I feel the problem is that he's not letting us know he has to go.  Also, why is his stool normal most of the time and runny on occasion.  I have not changed his dog food.  What do you suggest?  I went out yesterday and bought a temporary doggie door and I am now in the
process of teaching him how to go in and out of the house through the small
opening.  Please don't misunderstand me, this dog is family to us and I will do whatever I need to do go keep him in my home.

Answer
If a dog has mucous in its stool it is being caused by something within either his diet or his medication. He will naturally want to expel whatever it is thus he may lose control at times, to resolve this problem then you must find what the cause is and it is NOT behavioural.
Please try to understand that , this is not simply behavioural and the real problem is to find what is iritating his bowel or colon.

Have you tried an elimination diet, his medication may cause some stoll softening if given with some foods, has your vet fully explained about any changes the dog may see during the course of taking meds.