ArcaMax

When you introduce a dog or puppy into an established dog household, there are some adjustments to be made by everyone as the old dogs teach the rules of the home to the new arrival. Please allow a few weeks for this transition to occur.

Finally, give Sarina lots of toys to chew and play with her several times a day. If she is tired, she will be less likely to annoy Sassy and Star.

Dear Cathy,

I have a 2-year-old pit bull/beagle mix. I take him for walks at least three times a day. My problem is, I can't get him to stop eating dog poop. How can I break him of this habit?

- Charles, Valley Stream, New York

Dear Charles,

Coprophagia, which means "eating feces," is fairly common among dogs. No one knows why dogs do it, but theories range from nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption issues to compulsive behavior disorders. Here are some ways to address the problem.

If this is a new behavior, make sure it's not a health problem. Sometimes, dogs start doing new things when they are sick.

Pick up your dog's poop with a bag as soon as he defecates. When on walks, train your dog to "leave it" as soon as he sniffs feces. Use the leash to guide him away from the feces. If he is out in the yard and some distance away from you, shake a can of coins to get his attention, and then say "leave it" when he looks up at you.

Over-the-counter supplements also can make your dog's stool taste bitter and unappetizing. Because dogs are equal opportunity poop eaters, these supplements must be given to every dog in the home so their stool tastes bad too. Try these things and let me know what works for you.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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