[EEKappa]

I adopted dog #2 from the breed rescue organization of dog #1's breed. We learned that she was a pet store puppy, whose first owners gave her up because she tormented their two cats. Rescue is a good thing, right?

*Unlike dog #1, dog #2 freaked out in a crate. She'd paw at the doors frantically until we let her out.

*Bought a nice, open crate. She liked that better, but would pee and poop on the floor and dance in it.

*Got a bigger open crate that would fit both (20+ lb) dogs. This arrangement worked fine (no peeing or pooping), until the day that dog #1 got fed up and dog #2 got a bite on her face. (During a blizzard, which meant Animal Emergency Clinic --$$$$$)

*Moved the dogs to the kitchen with baby gate. They learned to open cabinets and pull "toys" out. Bought and installed child safety latches.

*10 years later, dog #2 is still not fully housebroken. It could be because of her pet store upbringing. Or as the animal behaviorist (more $$$$) suggested, she's just not motivated to go outside. Dog #1 never messes in the house, and looks horrified when dog #2 does. So, I do know how to housebreak a dog, just not dog #2.

Phew! This thread is like group therapy.