Hello! I have a 3 1/2 month old Golden Retriever. She is a great puppy, and we have successfully taught her basic commands, such as come, sit, shake, lie down and high-five. We got her when she was 8 weeks old. We started right away with potty training, and she got the hang of knowing that she goes potty outside. For the first month we had her, she only had one #2 accident inside. Since then, she knows to go sit by the front door and we take her out. We also watch her diligently after eating and playing to read the signs to take her out.


So as I stated, she did great for the first month, we were making super progress. We have a little yard out front and she had no problem going potty out there. Recently, however, it's been a different story. We think she is afraid to go outside. I think she may be afraid of vehicles. There is a parking lot for an apartment complex right beside the yard, and when a car pulls up she hunkers down low and tries to make a dash for our door.

I noticed this happening, and wasn't quite sure what to do. Now, she won't even come outside when we put her on the leash. I kneel down outside the front door with a treat and tell her to "come" and she just sits there and stares at me from the foyer. We've resorted to picking her up and setting her down in the grass, where she hurriedly does her business then races to the front door.

She is socialized, as we take her to visit friends and family with dogs and children. She loves my in-laws fenced-in backyard. Unfortunately we do not have the luxury.

I had read that for young pups, playing inside a lot is enough exercise, but I now think we should be taking her for daily walks, even if it is just around the block. I think this would get her used to cars.

Do I have the right idea here with the walks? I have tried positive reinforcement when we are out in the yard, but she doesn't care about a treat when she's out there, she'd rather race inside. How should I be acting towards her to help her through this?

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Taking her for walks in the neigborhood is a very good idea. Puppies go through different stages in life. They sometimes get scared outside. Sometimes don't want to go outside without you. They are just babies so it is not surprising. Just put her lead on her and pick her up or walk her outside to go potty. It is quick you know what jobs she has done and both are happy. Good luck.

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