So we’ve been fostering a 3-year-old Great Dane named Kai for about a month now, and there’s this weird issue. At first, he’d go outside with my husband no problem, but now he just won’t. If I’m not home, he straight-up won’t leave the couch for him. Kai’s fine with me, though. I think he might be over-bonded to me since I work from home. Anyone else dealt with this? Any tips?
Yeah, sounds like Kai’s attached to you since you’re around more. Has your husband tried doing some bonding activities with him?
JamesHenry said:
Yeah, sounds like Kai’s attached to you since you’re around more. Has your husband tried doing some bonding activities with him?
Not much yet, but we’re thinking about having him do some training with Kai inside first. Does that sound like a good idea?
JamesHenry said:
Yeah, sounds like Kai’s attached to you since you’re around more. Has your husband tried doing some bonding activities with him?
Totally! Start with small stuff like basic commands, then move it outside little by little.
Could something have scared him when your husband took him out? Even something small like a loud noise?
Malika said:
Could something have scared him when your husband took him out? Even something small like a loud noise?
Maybe! He is a little nervous about new stuff in general, but we can’t think of anything specific.
Malika said:
Could something have scared him when your husband took him out? Even something small like a loud noise?
That’s common with fosters. They can have weird triggers from their past. My dog hates umbrellas for no reason lol.
Have you tried using super high-value treats when your husband takes him out? Like chicken or hot dogs?
Parly said:
Have you tried using super high-value treats when your husband takes him out? Like chicken or hot dogs?
Not yet, but that’s a good idea! We’ll definitely try that.
Parly said:
Have you tried using super high-value treats when your husband takes him out? Like chicken or hot dogs?
Yeah, that worked for my dog when he was scared to go outside. Food is magic lol.
Maybe have your husband take Kai to a different location, like a quiet park? Could be something about your neighborhood.
Tsu said:
Maybe have your husband take Kai to a different location, like a quiet park? Could be something about your neighborhood.
Good point! We’ll try a car ride to a new spot and see if that helps.
Tsu said:
Maybe have your husband take Kai to a different location, like a quiet park? Could be something about your neighborhood.
Yeah, if he’s fine somewhere new, it’s probably the area. If not, it might just take more bonding time.
When you’re home, are you doing the longer walks? Maybe let your husband handle those when you’re both around so Kai gets used to him more.
PackTalkers3 said:
When you’re home, are you doing the longer walks? Maybe let your husband handle those when you’re both around so Kai gets used to him more.
That’s the plan! I’ll keep it short and simple when I’m alone for now.
PackTalkers3 said:
When you’re home, are you doing the longer walks? Maybe let your husband handle those when you’re both around so Kai gets used to him more.
Sounds like a solid idea. It’s all about building trust and routine.