[Bevandruby]

I've had my German Sheperd puppy for just over a week, she is lovely natured well behaved & gentle but she hates going for a walk. Whenever I put her on the lead she cowers in fear, she is not aggressive but I can see that she is scared of the process of exiting the house & it make me feel guilty every time I take her out. Once she is outside she is OK but seems very paranoid that something is behind her. Even treats & praise won't make her budge & I don't want to drag her out of the house as I am scared it will cause her pain.Please give some advice on the matter as I want it to be an enjoyable experience for both of us

[Cat1864]

How old is she?

[shazamataz]

Could be behavioral, could be an actual problem she has.

A lot of dogs can be naturally timid, especially if the parents(grandparents) were timid.
You can make it better with time but they will always be timid.

Now if it's just behavioral then you just need to socialise her as much as possible... you have only had her a week so she would still be adjusting to her new home anyway.

[Bevandruby]

How old is she?

She is 4 months old

[Aurora_Bell]

Puppy socialization classes are a great way to help them adjust to their new life. So do you think it's the leash it's self that she is afraid of or just the whole experience of being out doors? Puppy socialization, behaviour modification, relaxation protocols, obedience classes will all help her with building her self esteem and promote bonding between the both of you.

[Bevandruby]

Puppy socialization classes are a great way to help them adjust to their new life. So do you think it's the leash it's self that she is afraid of or just the whole experience of being out doors? Puppy socialization, behaviour modification, relaxation protocols, obedience classes will all help her with building her self esteem and promote bonding between the both of you.

It's the actual act of leaving the house that she is'nt keen on. I will be placeing her in a local puppy training school but this is also worrying me as she lashes out at other dogs, be it puppys or fully grown GSD's (this happened on her first trip to the vets). She is'nt very trusting of anyone other than myself, my fiancé & my children. I hope it is just because she is young & needs to build her confidence. Thank you for your advice.

[Aurora_Bell]

You shoyuold start behaviour modificatiion as soon as possible to nip this in the bud.
Behaviour Mod is different then obiedience classes. Ask your local trainer about a behaviourist in your area. The soon you start the less heart ach donw the road! Good luck!