Prince's smell: a royal pain

ASK DOG LADY | Jack Russell also barks when couple leaves

I have Prince, a 5-year-old Jack Russell that my daughter got from someone who had gotten him from a shelter. I am a retired senior and felt I could give him a happier home. My husband and I walk him three times a day.

He is a musty dog, even two or three days after a bath. Also, when one of us leaves, he continuously barks. He sometimes stops barking but he pees even though I may have just walked him.

What can I do? My husband threatens to give him back. I have been thinking of putting him in Pampers when we leave.

Leatha

A. Dog Lady wants to remind everyone to stick with your dear dogs. Don't give up on them. They are smart, eager-to-please creatures deserving of your care, good will and patience.

The best thing you can do for Prince is to take him for a checkup. The veterinarian will no doubt tell you the "musty" smell is unique to him. You can't wash it away.

Also, Jack Russells are small in stature but big in personality and needs. They require lots of exercise and stimulation to live happy, healthy lives. Get your dog a Kong toy (find these in any pet store). A Kong is a hard rubber object shaped like a hollow snowman.

Typically, dogs suffer from separation anxiety in the first 15 or so minutes after you leave. You can give the Kong to your dog just as you're walking away from the house. Prince should be happy gnawing on it until he forgets you're gone and quiets down.

During your vet checkup, ask about the peeing problem. Prince could still be adjusting to your home and might be marking his territory. The vet can explain inappropriate canine peeing to you and the reasons for this. If you decide to put a diaper on your dog, visit an Internet site -- pantsfordogs.com -- specializing in suitable attire for indiscreet dogs.

Q. I thought my dog and his dog walker had something special but then I found this note on my front steps that must have fallen out of the walker's pocket: "Dear Nick, thank you for being so attentive with Dexter and putting up with my notes and questions. Kristin."

I feel jealous. Should I talk to the walker about his attention to other dogs besides my Blarney?

Kate

A. You want the walker to be an equal opportunity attention-giver who doesn't favor one dog over another because you do not want him to put Blarney's needs behind any other. You should emulate Kristin and leave little appreciative thanks for the walker when you can.

Pet perplexed? E-mail doglady@askdoglady.com.