my dog is scared of something since this morning and i don't know what. The big problem is that he has confined himself to downstairs and will not go upstairs so he hasnt gone outside all day. (HE'S GOING TO HAVE TO GO TO THE BATHROOM SOON). This morning we found a big mess on the floor also, number 1 and 2. He used to be afraid of going upstairs when we first got him but he's gotten over that and has been good for the last few years. He is afraid of thunder but i checked the forecast and there is no sign of a storm anywhere (even far away). No fireworks either. I can't figure it out but I know he's gonna have to go outside, but if he can't get himself to go upstairs to get outside...well we don't want to have to keep cleaning up after him.
2007-06-17 11:38:50 · 8 answers · asked by Moi 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
He's a big dog so we can't carry him upstairs.
2007-06-17 11:41:17 · update #1
A lot of times, dogs will want to stay away from something unfamiliar, or high-frequency shrieks, such as vacuum cleaners. There could be rats in the house, but you probably would have noticed before if there were. If you have a doggie door, something could have gotten in, such as a cat or a skunk. If you have kids or toy cars, that could be why he's scared. My dog won't go anywhere near a toy car OR a vacuum cleaner, even when they aren't on. Drag the dog by a leash or collar upstairs and don't let him back down until you're sure he's fine. If you keep his food, water, and bed down there, then take those upstairs so that it will motivate him to go upstairs. If he continues to stay down there and wet the floor, be firm with him.
Also, if there are any, try using any words that usually get his attention. For example, my dog comes to me when I say "walk" or "treat". Try coaxing him with his favorite toys.
2007-06-17 11:50:08 · answer #1 · answered by Donna B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are going to have to get him upstairs. You should be able to combine forces and lift him, even if he is a big dog. After all, what would you do if he was very sick, had to go to the vet, and couldn't walk? You would find a way. Generally, it works if someone is pulling with a leash, and the other person is lifting the hindquarters so the back legs get to the standing position. You can also try coaxing him with yummy treats. My dog likes Beggin Strips because they are very stinky. If he is having accidents in the house, then you have a pretty big problem on your hands. If he is taking refuge downstairs, you should block off that part of the house for a week or so. If you don't have a door, get a baby gate for $10 at Walmart.
When he is afraid, DO NOT COMFORT HIM. You will only be reinforcing that behavior. Don't cuddle or pet him or even approach him if you are feeling sorry for him.
If this continues, then you will need to get someone to help you practice walking him up and down the stairs. Attack the fear directly. Good luck
2007-06-17 19:06:13 · answer #2 · answered by lei 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe he slipped and fell down the stairs. My dog slips sometimes when she's going too fast and misses a step. She's also afraid of thunder. Animals go on instinct, so maybe there's something you don't know. Maybe a loud noise last night that you did not hear. Do you know why he was afraid to go upstairs before? Maybe, for what ever reason, that fear has come back. What ever you did before to get her over the fear might work again.
2007-06-17 18:52:58 · answer #3 · answered by gale 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
All that had to happen was he got scared on the stairs... he could have sliped, he could have heard a pan drop, a door slam, or someone yell.
In his mind, he can stay downstairs forever, so you may have to push things.
1. Try getting a cheap hotdog and cutting it into dime-sized slices to entice him up the stairs. Have someone behind to stop him from retreating. OR...
2. Put on his leash and try pulling while someone pushes.
2007-06-17 18:47:55 · answer #4 · answered by hanksimon 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Did he accidentally fall down the stairs? Did someone or something scare him on the steps? Have you walked with him to see if he'll go up some steps but not all the way? What is around the stairs?
2007-06-17 18:57:11 · answer #5 · answered by Jess 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
have you gotten anything new lately? if you have maybe he is scared of that. try getten him to go upstairs if that doesnt work look it up on any websites likee
www.petsmart.com
www.animalplanet.com
try those and if the problem still continues consult a vet
2007-06-17 18:43:40 · answer #6 · answered by Carol k 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Does he have a leash? Well, put it on him and take him upstairs and outside.
You can figure out what's wrong with him later.
2007-06-17 18:42:18 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
maybe there is a cat or another dog that is tough and your dog is afraid it might get hurt from it! Look around for a stray animal. It could be a RACCOON.
2007-06-17 18:45:55 · answer #8 · answered by Nora Jones 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋