Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

How to deal with roommate's dog messy behavior and trash issues?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 30 lbs

This is about my roommates dog actually. I dont know how to deal with this dogs behavior & i dont think my roommate even understands how serious it is or maybe he doesn't care. On a daily basis I come from my bedroom to the kitchen & find the trash all over & the dog seems to potty where ever he wants throughout the house. I can't just leave it that way so I clean it up & I'm getting tired of doing it every single day. I don't know how to approach my roommate about it & not making him defensive

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Davis

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 1st, 2018

This is a difficult situation. Oscar needs training and to be confined when your roommate isn't supervising him. He could get ill from getting into the trash and he will never be potty trained if he doesn't have a routine and confinement so he can't continue this behavior. Oscar probably needs additional exercise and perhaps additional food so he's not so interested in the trash. I recommend giving your roommate a puppy/dog training book that discusses housebreaking with the use of a crate. I would offer to purchase a crate for Oscar to use so this behavior doesn't continue. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button