Kennel training older Pomeranian

Question
I adopted a Pomeranian that is about 4 years old.  She is very sweet. She does exibit some separation anxiety issues and follows us around the house a lot, especially if it appears one of us or all of us may be leaving her home alone.  She spent a lot of time alone at her previous home.

The previous owner didn't use a crate. She used puppy pads for her.  I have been told by my friends that it is essential to crate train her if I don't want her going in the house while I'm away.

However, whenever I leave, if only just for an hour or two, she pees in her kennel.  I know she is able to hold it longer than that, as she never pees in the house when we are home; however once in awhile will poop if we're not paying attention.  She also is prone to peeing a LOT if I take her on walks; marking like I would expect a boy dog to do.

She is not spayed but will be the week after Christmas.  

So, should I continue with leaving her in her kennel when we are on errands and when I'm out of the house for work 2x a week, or should I block off an area like the kitchen and see if that is better?  I also have 3 cats which she tends to fuss at when they get too close, but I'm more worried about her than the cats as she's smaller than they are!

Thanks,
Chris

Answer
Small breeds often have a higher anxiety level than large breed dogs. I think yo are correct inthat it is associated with separation issues. From what you write I see two different issues. The first being a lack of confidence and social skills and you can correct that with obedience training, agility and other fun activities with other people and dogs about. These build self confidence and the dog learns pattern behavior from the other dogs in socialization activities.

The second issue is potty training. I realize not everyone can be home enough to potty train the dog and rely on pads and litter boxes. the AKC recently endorsed an artificial grass mat for dogs. Crate training at an adult age (4) will take a lot longer than had the dog been crate trained from the start. So you might want to consider the litter box or artificial grass methods. I've trained a couple of my cats to use the regular toilet and this may also be an option for you. Pet stores usually have inexpensive books on potty training you can use as a guide.

Regards,
Henry Ruhwiedel
Westwind Kennels LLC
www.dogkennel.org