Scared of the dark!

[fallenangel123]

I got my new puppy last week, and she has settled in really well with the family. The only problem is she seems to be scared of the dark. She is brilliant about going out during the day to toilet, a bit reluctant at dusk but after dark has to be carried outside despite having the outside lights on. Any suggestions how I can make her more confident about it. Generally having to carry your dog out isn't an issue, but she's a great Dane so this isn't going to be practical after a while. She has the company of our other Dane too but even he can't get her to go play in the dark!

 

[misterjinglejay]

It's no help to you but my original samoyed was a rescue and he was scared of the dark, and would howl all night unless we left the light on. He wouldn't go in the garden at night unless the lights were on etc.

Just a thought, is her eyesight okay?

 

[CAYLA]

As u have not had her long I would keep taking her out and staying out with her, try offering her a meal out there or playing with her, try and make going out a positive and obs dont pay any attention to her anxiousness, i.e "it's ok baby" and scooping her up, carry her out for now if need or use a long line so you can clip it on and go out first and encourage her out try a squeaky toy and she if thats gets her interest and see if it will encourage her to go out and investigate and reward her with a treat "even try an uncooked butchers bone" see if she will engage in a chew when she is out there, or a kong filled with tuna/sardines.
If she is vaxed, get her out walking in the night, this way her attention is fixed on her sorrounding and she has to walk on as she is on her lead.


Do u have a security light out there?

 

[fallenangel123]

We do have a security light right by the door, but it doesn't seem to help. I even take a torch with me as the big fella is black so I don't lose him. Maybe I should get her a head torch? I did wonder about her eyesight, but she had her first vet check and seemed fine to him and she doesn't bump into things even when it is dark. Strangely enough she is fine in the house at night it just seems to be outside.
I'll try giving her treats while we are out and having a playtime before bed, hopefully it'll help! I don't fancy carrying her out in a months time, I'll do my back in!! Many thanks for the suggestions!