Hi,
I'm new here (just joined) I've never had a Chi before, but I've had other dogs
and what you describe sounds like a dog who is more towards the submissive side
(AFAIK, peeing when greeting isn't fear it's a sign of submission). Scolding is
probably not the best approach with a submissive dog.
If you can make the time commitment I'm willing to bet you can turn this around
over time, it sounds like you have a real sweet dog who is actually quite eager
to please.
Have you ever tried clicker training? If not, you could look into that, it's a
very positive way to modify and shape your dog's behavior. You can buy clickers
online or in pet stores, there are slightly different designs so just find one
you like the feel of and that you can easily carry around with you.
There are also a couple of different ways to do it, some better than others, so
it's best if you google it to find a better explanation than I'm about to give.
;-)
The method I've used is a step by step process that starts by offering the dog
a treat and clicking immediately when they eat it. Do this a couple of times,
and then progress to doing it at random times throughout the day. After a short
while you can put the food down and click when they find it & eat it.
This cements the association between the sound of the click and the reward of
the treats. (I may have the exact timing of treating vs clicking a little off
so again, please verify it on a clicker training website or book. This is just
to give you a general idea & so you'll see how easy - and cheap, LOL- it is)
Next, wait for the dog to do the desired behavior. In this case, peeing in the
right place. Without saying a word, click WHILE she's peeing, & treat when
she's done. No fanfare needed. The click "marks" the behavior you are trying to
encourage.
Meanwhile try to avoid as much as possible allowing her to pee where you don't
want. I know what you're thinking: that's impossible. Just do the VERY best
that you can. Never scold her. Continue to click & treat when she does what you
want.
In fact now that I think of it, you'd be better off using the clicker method
for a different behavior just so you can see how well it works. This will give
both you and her a feeling of success and help alleviate some of your built-up
frustration.
Then once you and the dog have the hang of it, and are feelign good about
yourselves, progress to using it for the more difficult behaviors like her
peeing in bed.
This website has some additional ideas:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Dogs-701/Chihuahua-peeing-bed.htm
Good luck! I really hope it works out, she sounds like a very sweet dog.
Jan
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