How to Train a Maltese Pomeranian

Hello Andrea, Was Milo previously potty trained inside and is having new accidents, always had accidents, a recent rescue who has never been potty trained, or previously trained in a different way like pee pads? If Milo used to do well but now doesn't, I would speak with your vet. This is probably related to pup's age and possible incontinence. I am not a vet though so consult them for any medical advice. When incontinence is the issue and it can't be addressed medically, like it can in some cases, then often managing pup's limited bladder capacity long term is needed. A combination of more frequent potty trips, tethering pup to yourself with a hands free leash when pup's bladder hasn't just been emptied, having pup stay in a small room or exercise pen with disposable real grass pads at night and while you are away for long periods of time, and sometimes using a belly band or doggie diaper while pup is in the rest of the home, are needed, depending on the severity or progressive nature of the incontinence. With an older dog who has never been potty trained but can hold their bladder, I recommend a combination of the tethering method and crate training method from the article I have linked below. You can adjust the times to add an hour to all the times listed there, unless you find pup needs the more frequent potty trips being older, like a puppy would. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-german-shepherd-puppy-to-poop-outside For a dog switching from a pee pad to outside potty training, I also recommend the tethering method and crate training method and getting rid of all pee pads, unless they are placed outside, to avoid confusion. The more accidents you can prevent through tethering and crating and a schedule for potty trips the sooner pup is likely to become potty trained. Expecting pup to alert to go outside before they have been accident free for six months can lead to pup regressing with potty training. Maintain pup's potty schedule strictly at first to prevent those accidents so pup will start to associate your home with cleanliness and want to keep it clean themselves too through habit. The methods will go over what to do when pup doesn't go potty when you take them out - tether or crate then try again, limiting freedom until pup's bladder is empty. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello, the fact that Mojo is lunging and growling at people is of concern. First, take him for a vet checkup to determine that there is not a health issue causing him to behave this way. With his training, you should know that he has the intelligence to learn well. I would also consult the advice of a trainer in your area used to working with dogs that show aggression before an incident happens that you will not be able to control. As for the marking, ask the vet about that at the same time - there could be a health issue behind it. Take a look here for training suggestions on the marking The Beef Up Training and The Physical Factors Methods may be ideal. For food aggression:https://wagwalking.com/training/stop-food-aggression. For aggression to people, The Establish Leadership Method: https://wagwalking.com/training/not-be-aggressive. Good luck!