I just adopted a 1-yr old puggle from the rescue that I volunteer for. She came in through our vet as a "stray" but I think she actually may have been surrendered. I live in a high rise apartment in downtown Chicago. My puggle, Lucy, is terrified to go outside. I've been taking her out 4-5 times a day, but every time she shakes when we get in the elevator, and won't eliminate no matter how long it's been since she's gone. She will only go on my apartment floor, and doesn't seem to think this is wrong. I bought pee pads and she won't use those either. She also is peeing in her crate. I know you're supposed to use positive reinforcement, but she hasn't done one thing yet that I can positively reinforce. Any advice at all would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!

how big is her crate? her crate should only be big enough for her to sit, lay down, and turn around in. no bigger, otherwise she will feel she can go potty in one end, and then sleep in the other. i don't really know what to saw about her not going outside, cassidy (my 9-week old puppy) goes outside fine. maybe try giving her a treat when you get in the elevator ?? and praise her if she doesn't shake. just look for things to praise her about and praise for the smallest things.

She just went outside for the first time! Yay! Her crate is just big enough for her to stand up in. I will try giving her treats in the elevator to calm her anxiety. Thank you so much for your advice.