Why is my dog pooping in his crate all of a sudden?

Question

I know all the rules, so please don't waste your time lecturing me on these. Our 1 yr old dog has just recently started pooping and peeing in his crate. The only thing I can think of is that he has created some sort of anxiety. He always runs into his cage on his own once he sees us putting our shoes on, he has been that way since he was a puppy, not making any messes. He seems perfectly content in there, he even enjoys staying in there during a storm. Then about a month ago I moved away to a new state and of course brought him, which separated him from my parent's two dogs, and now any time we leave even though we let him out and he goes he will make a mess even in about 20 minutes. Now even though there were other dogs before he wasn't particularly close to them and his crate was in a completely different room. His crate is plenty small for him, we have always kept a towel in there for him, should i try not using one? i just feel so bad...but i'm lost about what to do! It is not diarrhea but it looks like he pushes it around? and digs at the towel. Every time he we come home 95% of the time he needs a bath and 100% of the time I have to change the towel, it just gets so old...Help Please!

Answer 1

In response to Guest 1404, no offense, but that's ridiculous.  The crate is a safe place for your dog and your dog SHOULD learn to love him place and go there when he wishes to feel comfortable.  It does sound like he is having a bit of anxiety since moving to new surroundings.  Even if he was previously house trained, go through the motions again.  Start taking him out on a leash when you think he needs to go.  Stay with him until he does, and when he does, praise him like crazy.  Try closing the door to his crate during the day and leaving him penned in a small area.  If he knows you won't allow him into the crate to do his business, he should learn to hold it until he is let outside where he is praised for doing him business!!  Good luck.  :)