House Breaking Older Dog

Question
Becky,  I just purchased a "rescued" 3 - 4 year old dachshund that was crated by her previous owner for 3 years.....she, Sidney, came from a puppy mill.  I picked her up on Thursday evening..Everything went smoothly with my other dogs 8 year old dachshund and "pound puppy" that is 14.  Friday afternoon she slipped out as a handyman was coming in.......by the grace of God and lots of prayer I found her Saturday morning walking past my condo.  Of course, she is frightened.  I have seen her poop and pee outside, however, she does "both" inside more often that outside.  I work and am wondering what I can do to illeviate the potty inside problem.  I definitely don't want to crate her....and can't afford to have her barking all day as my neighbors would have a fit.....I live in a condo.  I realize that we all are still bonding.........but don't want to make this a way of life.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Karen,
I normally advise people to crate train for housebreaking but I can see in this case it may not be a good idea.  Those puppy mill dogs are so pititful, and being in a crate for three years is so sad.  
Be sure to let her out first thing in the morning to potty. Don't wait, take her out right away. As soon as she hears you stirring, she will have to go. Also, take her out within 15 min after she eats.  Be sure to praise her when she goes outside. If she makes a mistake, and you see her do it, then scold her but do not rub her nose in it or frighten her. If you do not see her do it, then do not scold her as she will not know what you are punishing her for.  You probably already know these things.  The trick is to take her out before she goes in the house.  I have heard that some people will put a leash on their dog and have them with them at ALL times.  Eventually the dog will let you know when they have to go potty.  When you are not home, try putting her in a small room such as a bathroom or kitchen , where you can block it off with a baby gate or close a door.  Put some papers down for her to use.  This will at least keep her from going all over your house and might help with the barking that would go on if she were crated.  It will be a trial and error, so you will have to just see what works best for you.  

Good luck and God Bless,
Becky