Molly's allowed for walks now, yay. But she hates it! I made a big effort to take her out and about in her bag before she could walk so thought she'd be used to the big wide world. But we've had sitting at the end of the drive refusing to go, hiding behind me when we see people or other dogs, trying to run all the way home..... She's much better when she can be off her lead and potter along with me but we can't do that all the time unfortunately. I'm guessing we just take things slowly and persevere? Any other tips? Also on Sunday we were thinking of going to mil's caravan by the coast for the day but not sure if this will be to much for her to have a whole day out and about 3 hours in the car, especially as she's been so nervous. But I'm itching to take her to the beach! She's 12 weeks
I`m afraid it is perseverance and massive amounts of encouragement Do you know someone with a friendly dog who would be prepared to walk with you , even if its only for ten minutes ? Pups learn an awful lot from older dogs , and I doubt she will refuse to walk if a furry pal is there as a companion Its a big wide world out there , things that we take for granted become monsters to a little puppy , so take some treats and use much encouraging sounds , it is very normal and she will get over it . By all means, take her out for the day , she can rest all she likes on the journey home, take water for her and some means of shade too , allow her to rest and not hoolie non stop for too long , she will love it and it will play a big part in her socialisation , have fun
Mine was exactly the same - I think it's just scary for them at first. Just keep treating and take it slowly - we did little and often to begin with - just what he felt comfortable with. Hard to believe he was ever like that now (6 months!) it doesn't last long! Agree with the above post as we were massively helped by walking with a friends 1 year old lab - made Mole forget about anything else except being with her Sam and Mole
The big wide world at puppy level can be a big scary place after being carried around and cuddled when out and about. Slowly, slowly does it. Puppies are naturally inquisitive so with encouragement from you Molly will soon gain confidence. You can only take Molly to the seaside for the day if you promise us lots of photos
Just did another short walk, again she just sat at the end of the drive so I picked her up and carried her to the lake which is at the bottom of the road and let her potter. Bless, when anyone stopped to say hello to her she tried to hide but then wanted to follow them as they walked off!
It's easy to think that all puppies are excited about going out for a walk. Tuppence was reluctant at first, despite having an older dog to copy. She would just walk a few steps and then sit down very firmly, although she wasn't particularly frightened by anything. It took a lot of persistance and encouragement - and eventually I put her in a harness, as I didn't like pulling her by her collar. The harness seemed to help, as she wouldn't even be bribed with treats, though perhaps she was trying to work out how many treats I would give her before she had to get up and walk! She now walks well, but prefers to be the leader when she's out for an on-lead walk and hates being behind another dog/person!
Ah bless her ,she will get it and start to love her walks and then you will be here telling us she's ignoring you and won't come back when you call!
