Originally posted by RachelJ:
<STRONG>First thing is to have your dog on a regular schedule for feeding, and to try to limit the number of treats. Second is to be aware of the times of the day your dog is inclined to poop and then to know whether or not he has done it. With a dog that is difficult to housetrain, you must be aware of this. For example, the dog goes out the first thing in the morning. Do you observe him to see if he urinates and defecates? Generally a dog is going to poop as often as you feed them,and they have their own little body clock as to when they do it. Some will poop when they first get up, others will do it after they have eaten breakfast. You need to be aware of these things. Exercise is another factor as often it will "get things moving". This is especially true of a puppy who might be very active. Very active play sessions can generate the need to defecate. Always praise your dog for "going" outside and be careful on the "scolding" for accidents. If you catch him in the act, I would just say, NO, OUT, OUT, OUT, and pick him up and put him outside, even if the act has been finished. If you don't catch him, there isn't much you can do other than clean it up.

Please do not give up. This is a problem that can be overcome with persistence and patience. At 7 months your puppy's body is still maturing which in and of itself is going to help.

[ November 07, 2001: Message edited by: RachelJ ]</STRONG>
Thanks for the help. I will try the crate and your help also.