Hi there,
I just got a 6yr old female Boston Terrier rescue dog. She was originally a puppymill breeder.

For the most part she is a wonderful dog. Very sweet, and patient with my kids. No aggression towards humans, no chewing or destructive behavior, no barking...I couldn't have gotten luckier! Oh btw, I should probably mention that this is my first dog.

I have a few questions and potential concerns.

First, we are house training her and she seems to have taken to a patch of dirt just outside my condo patio as he place to "go" We have had her a week today and went almost a full 48 hours without a mistake these last two days. It's progress but I'm still learning to redirect her when she's sniffing and circling. I tend to be too slow and she's already squatting when I realize/recognize it.
Two days ago she did something new. After being taken out, where she went poo (yay!) I brought her back in and she urinated on the floor. I'm guessing I rushed her outside and should have kept her out a bit longer? The thing that was different this time though was that she immediately turned around and began licking up her mess???

I'm not sure what that means in the dog world. I would appreciate any insight you may have on this behavior.

One other thing,

At night she lays with my kids on the floor or couch and licks them. Is this ok? Is that a female dog showing affection? Or a sign she feels dominant or "above" my kids? They love it, giggle and put out their arms, legs, n feet and crack up.
I'm not sure if this is a behavior I should be concerned about or not.

Thanks so much.

I love your podcasts and blogs. I wouldn't have had the first clue if it wasn't for the practical and informative lessons you offer. Thank you!