Fear Urination

Question
I have a male Lhaso Apsa mixed with American Eskimo named Charlie who is 26 months old. Up until a couple months ago he didn't really have a problem, but now Charlie frequently urinates (a small amount) in the house and while he is being petted by not only strangers but by friends. Also, I started dating a guy about this time and it's almost as if Charlie is intimidated, because he won't leave from under my feet. He has always followed me around the house, but lately I'm tripping over him. Is there anything I can do to correct this growing problem?

Lindsay

Answer
Your dog has insecurity caused by the presence of your new boy friend. The dog is afraid that he will no longer be the center of affection. You need to spend more play time and have your friend also play with the dog so the  dog learns that he is not being displaced. If the dog doesn't like the new friend, dump the friend. They are better judge of people than we are. This is the almost the same as when a new baby arrives and attention is taken away from the siblings or from the family pets. You have to get everybody to play together.

Regards,

Henry Ruhwiedel
Westwind Kennels LLC