Solutions For Dogs Afraid To Go Out (Or Come Back In)

Do you a sensitive pup who is reluctant to go outside to pee? Or maybe they'll go out, but then get "stuck" across the yard and be afraid to come back inside? 

In the video below I give 3 options for dogs who aren't comfortable going out or coming back in. 
 

Option #1: Indoor Potty Area

You can completely avoid the problem of your dog's reluctance to go out, or come back in, by providing an indoor toilet area. Check out this blog on setting one up.

Option #2: "Halfway Outdoors" Potty Area

Do you have a porch or balcony? Some sensitive dogs will be more comfortable using a toilet area that is attached to the house, even if it is outdoors. You might need to experiment with substrates to see what your dog will use. Artificial turf, real turf, paper potty pads, or fabric potty pads are some options. You could also try a large tray of leaves or other outdoor debris. 

Option #3: A Small Yard Enclosure 

Since many fearful dogs seem worried about crossing large open spaces, sometimes just shrinking down the area they need to move across can make it easier for them to go in and out to potty.  If you have the setup for this, you can try using an ex-pen or other moveable fencing to create a small pen that is accessible from the house. For example, you might put up some fencing in a semi-circle around a sliding glass door to the backyard. Then you can open the door and move away, giving your dog some space to move outside without the pressure of people standing nearby. 

If you try any of the setups described in this blog, we'd love to hear from you! You can comment below this blog, shoot us an email ([email protected]), or message us on Facebook or Instagram.