My 4 yr Pom behavioir changed..help!

[keycard198]

We just moved from SF to Wisconsin a few months ago, and my POM mix behavior changed the last few days.

He is peeing and pooping in the house, and when he sees a car drive by during his walk he starts to go after it. None of these were a problem until a few days ago. Any suggestions? I myself sometimes have to pee when it's cold outside and then coming to a warm house--is that also true for dogs?

The only thing, which is probably not even related---was he try chewing a worm that he found in the garage a week or so ago..he chewed it then spitted back out..yuck!

Thanks in advance.
KC

[agilityk9trainer]

The first thing you need to rule out is a UTI (urniary tract infection) This is extremely common, and sudden changes in bathroom behavior can be caused by it. So, make an appt. with the vet to get checked for a UTI.

As far as the barking at cars goes, you can tackle it several ways. One is to carry treats with you on your walk. When you see a car coming, distract your dog with treats. This will over time cause the dog to always turn to you for treats when a car speeds by instead of wanting to chase it. Others will have advice, I'm sure.

[keycard198]

Thanks for your quick reply--Yes..I was doing more research on this and other forums on that topic. HOw much does the vet usually charge for the UTI test?

Someone was suggesting giving cranberry juice also..

As for the car barking thing==just rather odd that it suddenly happened.

Thanks
KC

[agilityk9trainer]

UTI testing is inexpensive. I'm not sure how much, but I think I paid around $20 for the one I had done about a year ago. It was well worth the price, as my sheltie did have a low-grade UTI.

As far as cranberry juice, I have heard that it helps as well, especially in prevention, but if your dog has a UTI, it will need antibiotics. Also, don't give cranberry juice without first checking with your vet. Cranberry juice can mess with certian prescriptions.

Dogs often pick up strange, new behaviors. With the new move to a new area, your dog will be stressed, and at times like these, his chances of developing new behaviors is greatest. I really doubt it's related to a potential UTI, unless he's just very edgy because he's not feeling well because of a UTI.

[angelchampy]

I believe your dog is traumatized by the move. If he's never done it before, he's probably stressed from the change. Dogs are creatures of habit. They don't like change and they react to it very strangely - doing things they've never done before. I know I hate change, can you imagine how a dog feels when they can't understand what's going on? I would rule out the UTI first, but then I think the only thing that is going to heal is time. He just has to adjust to his new surroundings. Try to make everything about this new environment positive for him. Make unpacking boxes a "fun thing" for him. Make a game out of it. Run through the rooms of the house playing ball and chasing him. If he's having fun in his new home, he will adjust more quickly. Keep us updated.

[keycard198]

Thanks..He is going to a vet later today. Yea..with the move and a baby it could be stressful with all the changes. I'll let u know once I get the info from the doc..

ThankS
KC

[keycard198]

Yes..he does have UTI, as the urnine test confirmed. He is now on antibotics for 10 days..hopefully he gets well quick.

Thanks!
KC

[angelchampy]

I'm glad you found that out. But that doesn't have anything to do with the car chasing so it's probably a combination of things. I'm glad he's got meds now. Just make everything as positive as can be until he settles down and gets used to things. Good luck. :)

[agilityk9trainer]

Yes..he does have UTI, as the urnine test confirmed. He is now on antibotics for 10 days..hopefully he gets well quick.

Thanks!
KC

Good pet owner, keycard! Your boy will be feeling better, soon. As for the car thing, use the techniques I described above, and if you don't see success, come back for more!