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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed
Our puppy is 6 months old and has no problem using the doggy door herself to go outside to the toilet when we are home however when we are out or at night she goes in the house. Have spent weeks taking her out every few hours on command and when she goes we give her a treat but she still goes in the house when no one is home. HELP!
3 Answers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on May 18th, 2017
Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on January 26th, 2018
I would consider putting him in a crate when you are not at home. This encourages him to learn to hold his irons when you are not home. Most dogs do not want to pee where they sit/sleep so they are more willing to hold it. also, he is still young, so be sure to keep him on a routine. I would not let him eat or drink while you are gone as This can increase his chances of having an accident. I hope this helps!
https://www.google.com/amp/s/mobile.petcoach.co/amp/article/how-to-crate-train-your-dog
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jeffrey Milner
Veterinarian
Published on April 18th, 2018
I think that both of the ideas that you mentioned are great. Spend a little extra time out there and take her right back out as soon as you go back in just to make sure there is nothing left inside of her. Be sure to reward her accordingly if she acts in a desirable manner and refrain from any punishment, which is typically counterproductive. The more times a day you take her out, the more unlikely she is going to go inside, unless she has a health problem that is precluding her from emptying her bladder / bowels fully when you take her out. You might also think about getting her a doggy door (if the environment permits) and see if she would use this rather than somewhere in appropriate. Hope this makes sense. Sounds like if you keep working hard you will get her to where you want her to be.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful