Re: JRT puppy refuses to go outside

In Reply to: JRT puppy refuses to go outside
Posted by:  Erica
Posted on:  December 29, 2001 at 11:01:44

: Our 4 month old puppy refuses to go outside. She's been with us for about 4 days and has grown used to us fairly well. However, the moment we open up the door to take her outside she begins to shake as if she's scared. She absolutely HATES being outside. I have never in my life heard of a dog that is scared to go outside. We have to coax her gently to go outside and that doesn't work. So we carry her over to her spot to potty but she jerks at her chain as if wanting to return home. Again, please help.

: Thanks,
: Erica

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Hi, Erica,

You don't mention whether or not it's cold where you are, but besides cold, there are a lot of reasons why a pup might be intimidated by going outside at their new home. Whereas she used to be able to run outside with mom and littermates, now it's just her and this new, strange person she isn't totally familiar with.

Best thing to do is to be as sweet to this puppy as possible. Go right ahead and totally over-do it. When it comes time to go out, use a very happy voice, pick her up, and take her outside. Whatever you do, do NOT act impatient with her or you'll set yourself back a long way. She just needs to know it's safe and that you love her and will watch over her.

This is not at all unusual, and patience will conquer it over time. It may take a couple weeks, but it will happen if you work at it.