My dog is aTerrier mix and hard to get to go to do her business. She came from a pet rescue but seems well adjusted except for go to the bathroom when walk her. How do I impact this behavior?

It's really common for rescue dogs to take a little while to feel comfortable enough to "go" on walks — you're definitely not alone in this, and it says a lot that Honey seems well adjusted otherwise!

Here's what's likely going on: dogs are creatures of habit and scent. A rescue dog may have learned to eliminate only in a specific place (like a kennel run, a yard, or a particular surface like gravel or grass), and the wide-open world of a walk can feel overwhelming or unfamiliar. Terrier mixes in particular can be strong-willed and a little cautious about new routines.

Some things that often help:

• Give her more time and less pressure. Stand still in one spot rather than walking briskly. Let her sniff around at her own pace — sniffing is how dogs "read" their environment and it naturally triggers the urge to go.
• Pick a consistent spot. Take her to the same location every time, especially first thing in the morning and after meals. Familiarity builds confidence.
• Use a calm cue word. Say a simple phrase like "go potty" in a relaxed, quiet tone while she's sniffing. Over time, she'll start to associate the word with the action.
• Reward immediately. The moment she goes, praise her warmly and offer a small treat right away — timing matters a lot here.
• Try a quieter route. If your usual walk is busy or noisy, a calmer street or a low-traffic park might help her feel safe enough to relax.
• Watch for pre-potty signals. Circling, sniffing the ground intensely, or squatting and stopping — these mean she's thinking about it. Slow down and give her space when you see them.
• Be patient with the timeline. Some rescue dogs take a few weeks to settle into a new elimination routine. That's completely normal.

One thing worth knowing: if she's holding it for very long stretches (many hours), or if you notice straining, discomfort, or changes in her stool, that's worth a vet check to rule out anything physical going on.

When to see your vet:
- She's going more than 8–10 hours without eliminating regularly
- She seems to strain or look uncomfortable when she does try to go
- You notice changes in stool consistency, blood, or unusual odors
- She's also showing signs of anxiety like trembling, panting, or refusing to eat

For the behavioral piece alone, a veterinary behaviorist or a certified dog trainer experienced with rescue dogs can be a wonderful resource if things don't improve after a few weeks of consistent effort. No urgent rush, but it's a great option to have in your back pocket!