I have a 3 year old Golden Retriever who is completely house trained, however, when taken outside to do her business, she just sniffs around and takes forever to go potty (even hours after she has eaten and I know she must have to go). This can get very frustrating especially when time is short and I'm trying to leave for work. We do not have a fenced in yard (nor can we have one). I do treat her when she does her business. Any suggestions how I can better associate going outside in the backyard to going potty? She seem to be focused in on everything else but. Thanks!
It can be quite frustrating when our dogs don’t go to the toilet as soon as we put them outside, especially if the weather isn't the best for standing there waiting for them. Unfortunately, this is often the case as there are lots of interesting smells out there that and that often for dogs these are much more interesting than going to the toilet. As going potty is a form of communication for dogs, you will often find that dogs wish to ‘receive’ the message first before leaving their own. As your yard isn't fenced in, it is possible that many other dogs will have gone to the toilet there and therefore it may be much more important for your dog to see who’s been there rather than going to the toilet straightaway. You may find that you just have to give her some extra time out there, as some dogs take longer before they stop being distracted and go potty. Unfortunately, this may just require you to have to take her out early so that she is able to take her time yet you are not late for work. You are definitely on the right track with treating and praising her when she does go to the toilet outside. Persisting with this will eventually be rewarding but it will require patience and dedication on your behalf.
I hope this helps and all the best with the training!
