ArcaMax

Dear Cathy, We got a Morkie from a breeder when she was 10 weeks old. We’ve worked hard on potty training. She doesn’t go when on a leash but goes in her crate at least four times a week. Last night, I was with her in our yard for 30 minutes, giving her every opportunity to go, but this morning, it’s all over her crate again. This requires giving her many baths. I also give her the last meal of the day at 4:00 p.m., in the hopes she goes before 10:30. I thought dogs don’t go where they sleep.

— Margaret, Long Island, New York

Dear Margaret, Thank you for referring to it as potty training (or house training) rather than housebreaking — a term that implies punishment for mistakes. Teaching a puppy to go outside is all about patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency. Puppies thrive when they’re encouraged and given clear expectations.

Let’s start with her crate size. Is it big enough for her to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably but not so large that she can use one end as a bathroom? If it’s too spacious, consider using a smaller crate or a divider to adjust the space. Adding a comfy bed that fills the crate can also discourage her from using it as a potty area.

Next, establish a consistent schedule by taking her outside at the same times each day — always after meals, playtime, and naps. Consistency is crucial, so use a specific potty command like “go potty” each time she relieves herself and reward her immediately with a treat to reinforce the behavior. Pairing the command with her action helps her make the connection, saving you from extended waits in the cold. If she doesn’t go at bedtime, put her to bed and wake her 30 minutes later; waking from sleep often triggers the need to go.

Inside the house, watch for signs that she needs to “go,” such as sniffing or circling. If you notice these behaviors, take her outside immediately. Always reward her successes with treats, praise, or a favorite toy, and avoid punishment, as it can create anxiety and hinder her progress. For very young puppies, setting a timer to take her out every two hours may help establish good habits and prevent accidents.

You didn’t mention her age, but if she’s still a young pup, keep in mind that smaller breeds often take longer to potty train because their tiny bladders and faster metabolisms require more frequent bathroom breaks. Additionally, some small breeds have strong-willed personalities that can make training more challenging. With time and consistency, though, you should see steady progress.

Dear Cathy,

My 13-year-old neutered male cat has started peeing outside the litter box. He doesn’t step far enough in, so his rear end hangs over the edge, and he urinates onto the floor outside the box. A covered box isn’t a solution because he’s peeing right out of the entrance. Nothing has changed in his environment —same litter, food, house, and companions (four other spayed/neutered cats).

He’s been with me since he was a kitten, and this is brand-new behavior. He was diagnosed with a heart murmur about a year ago. Any advice on how to help him keep all his urine inside the box?

— Cindy, Las Vegas, Nevada

Dear Cindy,

When an older cat starts peeing outside the litter box, the first step is to consult your vet to rule out any medical issues, especially given his recent heart murmur diagnosis. Subtle health changes can trigger litter box problems, and behavior shifts often signal underlying concerns.

If his health checks out — aside from the heart murmur — his behavior may stem from age-related changes in mobility, comfort, or preferences. Older cats can develop arthritis or joint discomfort, making it harder to fully step into and turn around in the box. A more spacious, open-top box or a high-sided storage bin without a lid may give him more space to maneuver and help contain accidents.

While behavioral changes are uncommon in a stable, multi-cat household, subtle shifts — like dynamics with other cats — could play a role. Adding an extra litter box in a different location might reduce potential stress or competition and provide him with more options.

As cats age, they sometimes appreciate having multiple choices, and keeping the box extra clean may help, as older cats can become fussier about cleanliness. To keep the area tidy while he adjusts, consider placing a pee pad around the box. Small changes that enhance his comfort can go a long way in helping him maintain good habits.

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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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