Crate the dogs at night, then when you let them out take them outside immediately, just like you would a young puppy. If they do potty and poop, then reward them with the freedom of the house for a couple of hours, then re-crate them until they signal they have to go again. Then take them out, etc. If they only potty, put them on leash and keep the leash around your wrist so you can keep an eye on them (we call this the ubilical technique). They only get off-lead freedom when they have both pottied and pooped outside. When older dogs get incontinent it is time to question the quality of life they have.
Heavily saturate any area they use to potty or poop with vinegar. Then rinse with water, shampoo and if vinegar smell still remains, use a 50/50 solution of water and lemon juice to neutralize the vinegar smell.
The hotter the water used for shampooing, the better according to my husband.
Posted on 2/09/11 at 8:27 PM