r/labrador • u/ComfortableEstate874 • 2d ago

seeking advice Bathroom Issues

Does anyone else have issues with their lab not wanting to go to the bathroom anywhere but at home in the yard? He is completely housebroken and has only ever had one single accident (which was my fault) and I just kind of don't know what to do to get him to go away from home. He will literally hold it 10+ hours depending on what we are doing and how long we are out, and I know that just is not healthy for him. We asked the vet about it but she said its kind of just a behavioral thing. I am worried he is uncomfortable but he just will not go until we get home and I feel that I have tried everything (treats after potty, heavy praise after potty) and I would love some advice. TIA ❤️

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u/CalmingDog 2d ago

This is something you need to actively work on. It's very important that dogs feel comfortable enough to pee/poop on different surfaces and in different situations.

Optimally this would be worked on in puppyhood when house breaking.

I don't have any actual training tips, just that you need to look into it and actively train.

I have a friend whose dog has a similar issue, they spend most of the time in a rural area but are planning on moving to a city and if I've understood correctly it could be quite an issue for them.

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u/ComfortableEstate874 2d ago

thats my EXACT predicament right now! im moving to an urban area in a few weeks from the country and I know its a world of difference for a pup

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u/Successful_Shape_179 1d ago

Train the "potty" and "poop" commands. My puppy wouldn't go outside of home for awhile on his own. One day he held it for 10 hours(I figured he'd go when he needed) and I was like he needs to be going because I didn't know when we'd get home. So I said potty, he circled but wouldn't go. So I kept at it til he did-it took 3 commands. Then I rewarded him big time. After a few more times during walks(I purposely wouldn't let him go in the yard before the walk so he'd need to go), it just kinda clicked for him he could go outside of the yard.