Separation anxiety

[Andrea]

I'm pretty sure my 3-month old goldendoodle Archie is suffering from seperation anxiety which is probably why he's always peeing in his crate even though he's not alone for long (1.5 hours) and has peed before. We just started taking him for walks today because his parvo vaccine just kicked any. Any advice? Commiseration?

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

If this is new, maybe you should have him checked for a urinary tract infection.  It's unusual for a dog to pee where he sleeps.  Is the crate very big? you can try dividing the space if it is.  you may also need to clean it really well with an enzyme cleaner like Nature's Miracle.  Is it only in the crate?  Perhaps others will comment regarding your theory of separation anxiety -  I am no expert but my gut is it is not that.  

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

That was my thought, too. 

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

One of Murphy's first sings of separation anxiety was urinating in the house. He only did it when we left him alone. He was never in a crate tho, but he would urinate by the doors. He was 8 months old the first time we left him for about 4 hours so I knew he could hold it. He did it twice, only when we left and it was associated with a LOT of barking and crying as I heard him from the street and garage. Even spied on him once. It was heartbreaking.
I would check on a UTI, But it seems he would have accidents when you are home as well if that were the case. And yes, deodorizing the crate is a must.
Besides making sure he has gone potty before you leave, maybe just give him a few ice cubes instead of free access to water while you are gone. How about a treat that will keep him busy for quite awhile like a frozen filled kong? I use fat free plain yogurt and a little peanut butter and cranraisens. Which BTW would be good to put In His diet if you suspect a UTI.

[Andrea]

It's been happening for a while now and the crate is only big enough for him to lie down really. I thought about UTI but there are no other signs. He hate his crate but is starting to get better. We feed him meals an just started giving him pigs ears. It feels that he is worse in his crate when were near the crate than when I go to my bedroom and hide. We deodorize with vinegar and water. Do you think that's ok?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

You have to use an odor neutralizer like Nature's Miracle to clean up all accidents. 

[Andrea]

Thanks so much. Just ordered it :)