Anyone else struggling with a rescue dog?

Seeking help
1

I just adopted a 10-month-old rescue dog who was supposed to be put down last week, and I’m kinda stuck on how to raise her. I’ve raised dogs before, but she’s different. She’s super friendly but really timid about everything; walking, eating, meeting new people and dogs, you name it. I live in a busy urban area with lots of noise and distractions, and I know it’ll take time for her to adjust. The biggest issue right now is that she won’t go to the bathroom. She just holds it in all day and night. I keep taking her to the same grassy spot in the courtyard, using phrases like ‘go potty’, but she just goes in circles and stays still. I take her on walks too, but no luck there either. The good news is she hasn’t had any accidents in the house yet, but I’ll need to go back to the office soon and want to establish a routine. Oh, and she did go once in the grass, but hasn’t done it again since…

2

My rescue was like that too. It took a while for him to feel comfortable enough. Have you tried just waiting and giving her space?

3

sirigwen said:
My rescue was like that too. It took a while for him to feel comfortable enough. Have you tried just waiting and giving her space?

Yeah, I agree. Sometimes they just need time to sniff around and get used to the spot.

4

@DawgFella
Gotcha. I’ll try that. Just letting her chill for a bit might help.

5

Have you thought about trying a different spot? Maybe she doesn’t like the grassy area? Just a thought…

6

Lauraliam said:
Have you thought about trying a different spot? Maybe she doesn’t like the grassy area? Just a thought…

That’s a good point. I’ll look for a quieter spot without so many distractions.

7

I had a similar issue. What helped was bringing treats and praising her when she did go outside. Positive reinforcement.

8

CelestialRogue said:
I had a similar issue. What helped was bringing treats and praising her when she did go outside. Positive reinforcement.

What do you mean by positive reinforcement? Is that just giving treats?

9

@JacquelineJoy
Exactly. Just praise and treats when she does go. It encourages her to keep trying.

10

I feel you on this. My pup was super timid too. Maybe try a routine for bathroom breaks? Like every couple of hours?

11

Scofield said:
I feel you on this. My pup was super timid too. Maybe try a routine for bathroom breaks? Like every couple of hours?

That’s smart. A set schedule might help her get used to it.

12

Patience is key. Just keep taking her out consistently. She’ll get the hang of it eventually.

13

Smith said:
Patience is key. Just keep taking her out consistently. She’ll get the hang of it eventually.

Thanks. I’ll keep at it. It’s tough but I know she’ll come around.