Our Bostons recent poop accidents.

Question
Hello,
Our Boston Terrier is 11 months old.  After about 6 months, it seemed as though she was potty trained to go outside.  She barks at the door, or she rings a little bell we have at the door for her.  She went at least two months without an accident.  In the last month or so, she has been having poop accidents in the house.  We gave her a little bit of heck, but never spanked her or rubbed her nose in it (we know that is wrong).  I feel horrible about this, but now it seems as though she thinks it is just wrong in general to poop.  I think she just holds it until she can't anymore and then just goes wherever she is.  We praise and treat her when she does it correctly, but she still seems confused.  We have stopped giving her any kind of heck for accidents and continue to praise and treat for correct behavior.  A friend suggested that when she has an accident, we calmly take the poop and the dog outside, and show her that the poop belongs outside.  They are solid poops, so we don't think she is ill.  She is a sensitive dog.  What do you think would be our best course of action?  I would appreciate your feedback, because we feel horrible for making her feel that pooping is bad.  Thanks.  Terri

Answer
Hi Terri!

That ringing a bell thing is really cute I bet!  Honestly, I think you are already doing the right thing. I think she is a bit confused, and you are tryint to reinforce good behaviour with praise. Your friend's idea sounds pretty good to me too.   About 30 min after feeding, or less,  she will need to go outside, so maybe you can schedule walking her then?  She is still very young, and I think it will get better if you continue to correct her in a loving way and praise her lavishly when she does go outside.

God Bless!
Becky