Health & WellbeingMy dog is afraid to go outside. She goes out long enough to do her business and then pulls to go back home. She will not go for a walk. I don't know what happened that she does this but she is scared the whole time we are out
Hi and thanks for using Boop by Petco! It's hard to know what is going on with certain behavioral problems in dogs. Sometimes these are complex and need lots of information gathering and actual witnessing of the behaviors to try to solve. Not sure if you use a leash or harness, but whatever you use, maybe try switching to one or the other. With small dogs, harnesses are great because they don't put pressure across the neck and trachea. Maybe just keep trying to take her out for short periods of time, feed her outside in a safe place, offer her treats, play with her outside. Basically go slow with brief periods outside distracting her from her fears of being outside. Verbal and food rewards are good when she behaves appropriately outside. If this doesn't work I would talk to your veterinarian and see what advice they can offer. They may know a good certified dog trainer/behaviorist in your area that you could work with to get Lily through this problem. Good Luck
Updated on August 12th, 2025
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