As a specialized human with expertise in animal behavior and health, I understand the concern of pet owners when their beloved pets suddenly change their habits. If you are a pet owner, you might have experienced having a perfectly-behaved dog suddenly refusing to do their business outside and instead opting to do so inside the house. This is a common issue that many pet owners face and it can be especially frustrating when the pet in question is a 12-year-old mini dachshund who has been well trained for years.
Firstly, it is important to rule out any medical issues that may be causing the change in your pet’s behavior. Your pet may have developed a condition that is making it difficult for them to hold their bladder and bowel movements. Therefore, I recommend taking your mini dachshund to the vet for a check-up to ensure that they do not have any underlying health conditions.
Assuming your pet is healthy, then the change in behavior may be related to a change in their environment. Have there been any changes in the household routine or any new activities that might have caused your pet to feel insecure or anxious? Has there been any change in the number of walks or playtime your pet gets? Dachshunds are known for their loyalty and love for their owners and sudden changes in their routine may cause them to feel distressed.
Another common reason for this behavior could be related to the age of your pet. As dogs get older, their bodies tend to work differently, and they may find it challenging to hold their bladder and bowel movements for an extended period. Due to this physical challenge, they may associate the pain of holding it in with going to the bathroom outside.
To address this issue, I recommend offering your pet plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves, such as taking them for more frequent walks or making sure the backyard is readily accessible. Additionally, you can consider puppy pads or special indoor pet restrooms to help ease the process of going to the bathroom and reduce the anxiety that they may feel.
In conclusion, taking a holistic approach when addressing your pet’s new habit of not using the bathroom outside is fundamental. Remember to check with your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions and review recent changes in your pet’s environment, routine, and age. With patience, consistency, love, and understanding, there is hope that your pet will readjust to their previous routine and continue to bring you joy and companionship for many more years to come.