HI everyone! I'm new here 1st post. Our last 2 dog's were Yorkies 1st one was 15 when she passed the was almost 10 had to be put down, had them both since pups. We were looking for another Yorkie but circumstances changed when my Son passed away at 51. They had 4 dogs everyone had their own dog 2 labs a King Charles and a Shih Tzu which was my Sons dog. My Daughter in Law and the 2 boys ask if we would like his dog we couldn't say no. Now we have a 2yr. old Not house broke Shih Tzu. Here's where we need help, I'm 80 and don't have a fenced yard so were trying to get her to use the reusable pads that's what our Yorkies used and that was great. The problem is getting GiGi to use them she doesn't want anything to do with them. If you have any ideas please pass them on. We have only had her since the middle of October. Thanks for any help, LWC
A difficult situation. I'm sure that at 80 you don't want to be on your knees, mopping up after Gigi several times a day. I presume that you have access to some kind of open area, even though it isn't fenced. If so, I would put Gigi on a long lead and stand with her until she has emptied her bladder, (or bowel). Get to know the times to expect it happening - usually on waking, after feeding, or after a long sleep. (Have an umbrella by the door in case of rain). If there is a favourite spot in the house, remove every trace of scent and put a piece of furniture over it! As she learns, watch for her moving towards your outer door. Don't get angry over mistakes, this leads to anxiety which makes the problem worse. Most important, when she wees in the right place - praise, praise, praise. Carry a few tiny but delicious treats in your pocket and reward her. Do the same when you walk in the park, or wherever. It will take time to break the habit, but it will come. Hope that helps.
