I need advice please

[rrush]

I am getting worried about my Minature Cocker Spaniel. While I am at work she won't eat any of her food or water. Even when I come home she doesn't touch her food. I pick her food and water up before bedtime because I am trying to potty train Precious. I feel like I am starving and it makes me feel terrible. I feel that when I get home I don't want to do anything but enjoy her and give her all of my attention. Last night she wet the carpet twice. I let her out two times during the night to use the potty. She will potty outside before we go to bed but she won't during the night. She knows I am upset because she acts so sad when I walk into the living room and see the pee pee. Do you have any advice? She will eat her treats as a reward for doing good. I am so confused.

[Sarah]

She's probably having a little anxiety about being alone while you're at work. Try feeding her half of what she normally gets before you leave for work and leave fresh cold water for her. Then when you get home, give the remainder half of the food. If she's eating only treats quit leaving her treats to eat, don't give her a choice. It's only her food. Give her treat after she has her evening meal. With a puppy,the treats may taste better and she may just be getting spoiled.

Regarding her going potty there will be mistakes, but make sure you have her on a schedule to go potty outside. Like right after play, after a nap etc.

[jude09]

hello rrush I have something that may help you.

Simply click on the link below to read more;

Dealing with a picky eater

[MaryAnn]

Excellent Sarah...I couldn't have said it any better. Your advice is right on.

[buffalogirl]

sounds like separation anxiety. Our dogs do not eat while we are gone. I think that is partially because they know they cannot go out to pee. Once we get home, we feed them and then play with them. Leaving a radio, or even better a tape with your voice on it might help. Some people suggest leaving the tv on an animal channel. I have not tried this though..

[MaryAnn]

The food bowl should never be left down all day. Put it down for 20 minutes in the morning, and if they don't eat..pick it up and put it down again in the late afternoon or early evening when you return. They'll eat when they are hungry. You shouldn't be feeding her treats if she hasn't ate her meal. This is teaching her... "that if I don't eat, Mom will want me to eat something and give me treats"...dogs are very smart and can figure us humans out.

Dog's pick up on our every mood...so always be calm.