Expert: Jill Connor, Ph.D. - 10/4/2008

Question
Recently I had some work done in my yard ..concreting and sealer spray rough finish..I have a 4 year old female desexed daschund/terrier X and she seems to have been greatly affected by the changes to the yard..she will stand out in the rain and refuse to come inside when called..she roams around the property, and seems to be really affected by the changes..I have tried to reassure her but she just gets 'leery-eyed', moves away and wont come when called..I have to resort to following her, picking her up and cuddling her..will she get over this or has this change impacted her forever..ps..she still sleeps on my bed, still enjoys her car drives and her dinner, and we still enjoy our morning walk but it's kinda like she has has been spooked because of the changes..I've asked and explained the situation to the vet but he also just said she'll probably get over it..it's now 2 months...so I'm hoping you can come up with another solutions..cos it distresses me to see that maybe her trust in me is now displaced..thanks for listening....regards Elly

Answer
The vision of the dog is not as acute as our own; they "see" at a 20/75 level.  Dogs are also exquisitely reactive to changes in environment.  From a dog's eye view, your yard has become a less friendly place.  The change must somehow impact her visualization of the terrain she needs to cross to get back into the house.  Going outside to pick her up and cuddle her, while motivated by the highest regard and love, has actually convinced her that there is something to fear: i.e., good dog, be afraid.  Calling her indoors, when it involves her negotiating this strange terrain (from her viewpoint) has successfully extinguished your recall and confused her.  You need to GO OUT WITH HER every single time for at least three weeks.  Put her on long, lightweight leash.  Praise every step forward she makes but ignore (IGNORE) her fear.  If she hesitates and won't move forward at all, you go forward to the end of the leash and demonstrate a carefree attitude.  Go back to her and attempt to lead her once again.  If she refuses to go forward, go BACK with her before interacting with her.  In other words, reward ONLY the fearless movement and IGNORE the fear.  For every step forward she takes, praise and reward (small food treat, very tiny.)  Continue this steadfastly several times a day, every single day, until you see the dog beginning to change her behavior without your encouragement.