Dog Door -Wants permission to use

Question
Hi,
I have a 12yr shepard mix with cushings disease (needs to urinate ALOT). Consequently I got an electronic dog door for the old guy and have gotten him thru most of the training techniques. The only remaining problem is he still comes to me to "go out". As soon as I say "dog door" he responds and uses it, however he does not seem to comprehend that he can come and go as he pleases. I try to limit regular outdoor walks outside with me accompanying him to morning and evening only for now,  such that he would get used to the idea of using the dog door during the day while I'm at work. ANy help would be appreciated.


Answer
Have you tried just ignoring him? Will he eventually go on out on his own if you don't tell him "dog door?" Has he been using it when you haven't been home? If not, try confining him (if you can) to a small area right inside the dog door, so he has no choice but to go out, or potty on his bed.