ArcaMax

Dear Cathy,

We got a Morkie from a breeder when she was 10 weeks old. We've worked hard on potty training, but she doesn't go on a leash and has accidents in her crate at least four times a week. Last night, I spent 30 minutes with her in the yard giving her every chance to go, but this morning, her crate was soiled again. This also means frequent baths. I give her the last meal at 4:00 in hopes she'll go before 10:30, but it hasn’t helped. I thought dogs don’t go where they sleep.

— Margaret, Long Island

Dear Margaret,

Crate training can be challenging, especially with small breeds. While most dogs avoid soiling their sleeping area, there are a few reasons why she might still be having accidents. First, ensure her crate is just big enough for her to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably — if it's too large, she might use one end as a bathroom and the other as her sleeping area. Using a divider can help limit the space.

Even though you're feeding her early, her bladder might not yet be fully developed enough to hold it overnight. Since you didn't mention how old she is now, I assume she's still young, which makes this common. Try taking her out for one last bathroom break right before bed. You may also need to adjust her morning routine for earlier potty breaks until her control improves. Reducing her water intake a couple of hours before bed may also help prevent overnight accidents.

Potty training for puppies takes time, and it's common for them to regress before they fully understand. Stay consistent with her feeding and potty schedules and watch her closely for signs like sniffing or circling, which indicate she needs to go out. A good rule of thumb is to take her outside after every meal, every play session, and every nap, as she'll likely need to go right after these activities.

Most dogs start showing progress within a few weeks to a couple of months, but this can vary. Small breeds sometimes take longer to house train than larger breeds, but you should typically see progress around four to six months of age. With time, consistency, and some adjustments, your "Morkie" should improve her crate habits and develop better bladder control. Be patient, as every dog learns at their own pace.

Dear Cathy,

We had to euthanize our beloved dog due to chronic kidney disease. He was my best buddy. We are now searching for a breeder who we can directly deal with. We have contacted many different resources, and the results have all been breeders with a third party representing them. They are dog brokers.

I have researched all the possible ways to find a breeder who does not rely on someone other than themselves to find a loving home for their puppies. We are interested in a "multipoo, shihpoo, or a havapoo." If you can direct us where to obtain a listing of these breeders we would greatly appreciate it.

— Doreen, Glen Cove, New York

Dear Doreen,

While I encourage you to adopt from an animal shelter or a rescue group specializing in certain breeds, I appreciate your effort to avoid breeders who use third-party brokers to sell their pets to pet stores. To find a reputable puppy breeder who does not rely on third-party brokers, start by researching local breeders who raise their puppies at home.

A responsible breeder will encourage you to visit their home or facility, allowing you to meet the puppies and their parents in person. This level of transparency is a strong indicator that the breeder is not using a third party. You can also contact breed-specific clubs or national kennel organizations, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or United Kennel Club (UKC), which often provide breeder directories. These breeders follow strict guidelines and typically sell directly to the public.

When speaking with breeders, ask if they sell directly or use brokers. A reputable breeder will openly share details about the puppies' upbringing, health checks, and pedigrees. It's also helpful to ask for referrals from friends, family, or veterinarians, and to check online reviews to avoid breeders with complaints about third-party involvement.

Be cautious of websites listing multiple breeds for sale, as breeders working with brokers or puppy mills often sell a variety of breeds at once. Also, avoid pet stores and large websites that offer numerous breeds, as brokers or mills often supply these.

By following these steps, you can find a breeder who cares for their dogs and does not rely on third-party brokers.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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