LoveToKnow Dogs:AllComments

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Hi Kim,

I think this may be a combination of your dog missing his previous owner and the drastic change in his living cir...stances. Having been an indoor dog used to being part of the family, it's probably very difficult to adjust to living outside away from everyone. Unless this dog has housebreaking problems, why not try letting him spend more time inside to see if that helps him adjust. You can always take him outside for exercise, but Labs love their people and become very devoted to them. This could make a big difference in his personality and appetite. Of course, it also wouldn't hurt to take him in for a physical to make sure his behavior isn't related to any illness or condition.

Thanks for your question, and I hope things work out. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I adopted a 3 yr old lab/retreiver cross last week from the animal shelter. He was an inside dog until owner surrendered and once we adopted him we put him outside. He has no interest in eating, drinking, playing,and always sleeping. I'm really concerned and would like to know what to do. We do give him lots of attention and love and I do bring him inside for short periods. Do I need to take him to the vet? Does this sound like depression? My heart breaks to see him this way and I want him to have such a good home with us. Any advice would be so appreciated.

-- Contributed by: Kim

Hi Patty, and congratulations on your new dog.

Being shy about pottying isn't too unusual for a new pet, but do continue to moniter her. Is your yard fenced in? If so, try taking her out without the leash. She's used to less company when she eliminates, and the leash and your presence might be a little overwhelming for her right now. Also, make a thorough search for any soiling in the house, just in case she had an accident in an out-of-the-way area that would be more difficult to notice. Again, it wouldn't be unusual for a dog in a new home, but it's something to watch for.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this suggestion helps.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

Hi we have had a new dog for 1 week now. She is about 2 years old and slowly adjusting to our family the problem is she hasn't urinated in over 24 hours and hasn't pooped in 48. When she does go it takes about 10 to 15 min standing outside with her on her leash. Her previous owners had a doggie dog and she run in and out whenever she had to go. That's not possible for us so we take her out. Is it normal for her to hold it in so long? and do you have any tips?

-- Contributed by: Patty

Hi Jeanne,

First let me say that I really admire the fact that you are fostering this needy pet. You must have a generous heart.

That said, it may be necessary to keep your foster pet in a crate while you're away. However, this won't really address the anxiety issue, just the damage. Check out our article on Crate Training Your Dog. I'd also like you to read Severe_Separation_Anxiety_Disorder. It's an article on a similar question from another visitor whose dog had anxiety issues. The advice in that article may also prove helpful for you. If not, it may be better to return this dog to the shelter in hopes that another foster parent will have more time to help this animal work through the anxiety issues and be ready for a new home when one comes along. That way you're free to foster another pet that is more compatible with your current schedule.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this info helps. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I have just gotten a foster dog. He is about 3-4 and a chow mix. He is well mannered and listens to commands. My problem is when I leave the house to go to work, he destroys it. He has torn blinds down and scratched up doors. He has also weed in the house a couple time. The rescue that I got him from says it may be Separation Anxiety. I have tried several things that I have read on this and don't know what else to do. I really want to help him until he gets a home, but can't have him tearing the house up in the mean time. Thanks for your advice in advance.

-- Contributed by: Jeanne

Hi Kara,

I have a few questions for you. First, do you know if your water is significantly different from the shelter's water? For example, there's a big difference in smell and flavor between city and well water, and it could put a dog off drinking.

Are you leaving fresh water out continually, and does your new Chihuahua have full run of the house? If so, she may be taking small drinks and you're just not catching her. Chihuahuas don't consume a lot of water at once, so you may not notice a significant change in the water level in the bowl.

How many days have you had your new pet? It can take a day or two for a dog to become acclimated to new surroundings. However, going longer than this without drinking could become a problem. If necessary, buy a bottle of distilled water and see if your dog will drink that.

Considering your answers to these questions, you should consult your vet if your dog doesn't start drinking very soon. Dehydration will leave the skin feeling saggy, and it can interfere with organ functions.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your answers to my own will guide you to a solution.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I just adopted a chihuahua from a local shelter. She is eating her food but will not drink any water. It is definitely concerning me. What should I do to get her to drink water?

-- Contributed by: Kara

Hello, About 6 months ago we rescued a lab/ springer spanial mix puppy approx 5 months old. We already had a Lab 6 and ahalf yrs old. The puppy adjusted well and everything was fine now he is starting to show dominate behavior with the lab. she is verry patient and he backs off most of the time. He also has the behavior to take all the toys any toy and pile them in the yard, he will take her toys from her and pile everything together he does not play with them just hords them all. How do i stop this? We have tried everything.

shelly

Hi Shelly,

It sounds like your older dog is doing well with your puppy's challenges. You will however need to step in about the toy hoarding. Go ahead and set up a situation for this to happen, and then take the opportunity to tell your puppy "no" when the toy stealing begins. You are the pack leader, so you have to assert a little authority. Repeat this lesson until your puppy gives up the challenge.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: Shelly
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