Revenge pooping is something many dog owners have experienced. You come home to find a pile of poop in the middle of your living room floor, even though you just took your dog out 30 minutes ago. Was this an act of revenge by your dog? Do dogs even understand the concept of revenge? Let’s explore this smelly subject.
Quick Answers
Dogs do not poop with the explicit intention of getting back at their owners. However, inappropriate elimination can sometimes be the result of stress, anxiety, or change in routine. It’s important to rule out medical causes first. Then strategies like more exercise, rewards, and consistency can reduce revenge pooping.
Do dogs feel emotions like revenge?
Dogs do not experience complex emotions like revenge or spite. However, they can feel basic emotions like fear, anxiety, frustration, anger, and happiness. So your dog is not intentionally thinking “I’m going to poop here because my owner left me alone all day.” But behavior that seems like revenge could be a response to stress or change.
Dogs lack higher reasoning skills
Dogs do not have the cognitive ability to plot elaborate revenge plans. Their brains are simply not wired to think through multi-step processes and conceptualize cause-and-effect in the same way humans do. Dogs live in the present and react to their immediate circumstances.
Stress and anxiety can manifest as inappropriate elimination
While not revenge, your dog may potty inside due to:
- Change in routine (new work schedule)
- Lack of exercise/stimulation
- Medical issue like UTI or diarrhea
- New pet or baby in the home
- Loud noises like fireworks or thunder
This type of stress/anxiety related inappropriate elimination is often interpreted as revenge by owners.
Why does it seem like dogs poop for revenge?
There are several reasons why inappropriate elimination seems like an act of revenge, even though that is not your dog’s intent.
Coincidental Timing
The timing may simply be a coincidence – you scolded your dog for getting into the trash, then found a pile of poop in your bedroom later. But unless caught in the act, it’s impossible to know when your dog actually soiled your home.
Changes in Routine
Dogs thrive on routine and can become stressed when their regular schedule is disrupted. For example, if you recently started leaving your dog alone for longer work hours, the change could cause anxiety that manifests as indoor accidents.
Lack of Signals
Dogs that are not fully housebroken may no longer give signals when they need to go, such as barking at the door. Owners may perceive “sneak pooping” as revenge, when really it reflects incomplete training.
Learned Behavior
Dogs that have been punished for pooping inside may learn to eliminate in secret spots to avoid punishment. They may still poop inside when anxious or if waiting too long between potty breaks.
How can I stop my dog from pooping for revenge?
If your dog seems to poop for revenge, here are some training strategies to try:
Rule Out Health Issues
First, take your dog to the vet to rule out medical causes like parasites, infections, diarrhea, or loss of bowel/bladder control. Some medications can increase urination as well.
Stick to a Routine
Dogs feel secure when they can follow a predictable daily schedule. Take your dog out at the same times each day and stick to regular feeding schedules as much as possible.
Increase Exercise
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and stimulation. A tired dog is less likely to have pent-up energy that leads to destructive behaviors. Try going for longer or more frequent walks.
Reward Going Outside
Give your dog lots of praise and treats for pottying in the appropriate spot outside. This positive reinforcement helps continue their training.
Clean Soiled Areas Thoroughly
Use an enzymatic cleaner to fully eliminate odors that may attract your dog back to the same indoor potty spot. Vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda are helpful homemade cleaners.
Limit Access
Block off rooms or use baby gates to restrict your dog’s access to parts of your home until their potty training improves. Keep them confined to dog-proofed areas when unattended.
Adjust Your Schedule
If possible, have a friend or dog walker take your pup out on days when you have to be gone long hours. Or consider doggie daycare a few days a week for socialization and activity.
Be Patient and Consistent
Changing inappropriate elimination behaviors takes time and commitment from the entire family. Accidents will happen – respond calmly and never punish your dog.
How can I stop my cat from pooping for revenge?
Cats do not poop for revenge either. But inappropriate elimination is common. Here are some tips for cats:
- Add more litter boxes – one per cat plus an extra is recommended
- Try different litters – some cats prefer finer grains or unscented types
- Clean boxes frequently – scoop daily and change litter weekly
- Place boxes in quiet, low traffic areas
- Make sure boxes are easily accessible
- Take cats to the vet to check for underlying medical issues
- Use Feliway diffusers to help relieve stress
- Clean soiled areas thoroughly with enzymatic cleaners to remove odors
How can I keep my house from smelling like dog poop?
While not revenge, dog poop smells are unpleasant. Here are tips to keep your home smelling fresh:
- Pick up poop in the yard frequently
- Take the trash out regularly
- Clean up accidents as soon as possible
- Use an enzymatic cleaner to neutralize odors
- Open windows regularly for fresh air
- Change air filters monthly
- Groom your dog regularly
- Wash dog bedding frequently
- Use scented candles or essential oils
- Keep potty pads and training areas clean
Conclusion
While it may sometimes seem like your dog is getting you back by pooping inside, they really don’t understand the concept of revenge. Inappropriate elimination is more likely due to stress, changes in routine, lack of training, or medical issues. With patience, consistency and these troubleshooting tips, you can get the problem under control and keep your home smelling fresh.