Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 40 lbs
We just moved to a big city and when I take my dog to the backyard to go to the bathroom, she freaks out at every noise (like even crickets chirping) and will only pee then run back. Then while she is in her kennel, she poops. What can I do to get her to only potty outside again?
1 Answer
Published on July 20th, 2018
Take Lily out on a leash every time. This way she cannot run back into the house after she pees. Do not walk around. Just stand there and repeat "go outside" or a similar phrase. As soon as she starts to go, repeat "go outside" and praise "good dog!" as she goes. When she is finished (pee and/or poop), bring her directly back inside. If she does not go after a reasonable amount of time, bring her in but do not remove the leash. Attach it to your belt loop and keep her with you. Don’t let her out of your sight! When you see her start to circle or sniff, take her right outdoors again and repeat the process. If she does mess in the house (which she shouldn't if you are watching her closely, do not scold her unless you actually catch her in the act. In that case, say "NO!" and take her right outside. Tell her to "go outside" and praise as she finishes. Keep her in a crate at night, or for short periods when you are not at home. For further assistance with this, click on the prompt to initiate a consult.
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