My senior dog has anxiety about going outside. What can I do?

Question

Please help me I've a springer spaniel who is 12 years old.. He lives to walk..but lately he is terrified of going out side...we've been to vet a while a go. Who said he was going deaf... I am waiting for my sister to get back, before we go to vet..just wondered what you thought? He also has lipoma s on his trunk... Thry never bothered him before. What do you think? Otherwise he's ok..but going out was such a treat. Pet's info: Dog | English Springer Spaniel | Male | 11 years and 11 months old | 49 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Shat a handsome boy! Usually lipomas do not cause pain so they should not be the reason he doesn't want to go outside. He may be painful or was scared by something outside. I recommend putting him on a short leash and having a treat to lure him outside. Take him for a short walk in the backyard only to start, come in and praise him and reward him again. That should help build his confidence and see if its due to anxiety or pain. Some dogs who hurt don't want to walk like they used to due to discomfort. Often they will be stiff rising, want to go, but only go for a short way before stopping. What you are describing does sound like more like anxiety than pain. You can add the supplement Solliquin which is for anxiety or there are other brands of calming supplements sold at PetCo. You may also want to try having a dog he likes come along when you are taking him out since he may want to walk again if he has a relaxed companion going along with him. I haven't found deafness alone to cause these symptoms. I veterinary exam is always a good idea also, and they may want to do a trial of pain medication to see if that helps the situation. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Danny.

My senior dog has anxiety about going outside. What can I do?

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