Our Phoebe is a 17 year old cocker that until last week, never had problems going outside. But a week ago we had our patio enclosed which means she now has a second doggie door to go through. No matter what we do (have tried treats ad nausium), she doesn't like going outside to do her business. She will early in the morning and late at night but only after lots of coaxing and lots of treats. I realize that the outer doggie door flap is black and she's not used to that so we put white paper on it but that still doesn't work. Help! Any suggestions?
Retraining dog to go outside...
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17 years old, not months? She's very, very old, which worsens a dog's natural resistance to change, and dogs really don't like change. Plus, she's probably lost at least some of her vision, so that's likely making it worse.
Just train her as you would a puppy. Keep it up with the treats and gentle encouragement. Be patient.
Just train her as you would a puppy. Keep it up with the treats and gentle encouragement. Be patient.
Yes, she's 17. Her hearing is pretty much gone but her eyesight is still pretty good. She has a large mass on her abdomen so we know her days are numbered. We're trying to be as patient as possible and guess we'll just have to live with this latest challenge for her. Thanks for responding so quickly.
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