u/michaelvp32

I adopted my Bernese Mountain Dog, Walter, about 2 months ago when he was 10 months old. He’s now 12 months old. Overall he’s a super social dog—he loves people, does great at daycare, and is generally a happy guy.

The one thing I’ve noticed is that he’s extremely anxious in brand new environments.
We’re currently staying at my in-laws’ secluded cabin in northern Michigan. Inside the cabin he’s completely relaxed, and his crate has quickly become his safe space. He’ll happily hang out in there or relax around the cabin.

The second we go outside to potty, though, it’s like a switch flips. He puts his head down and sprints back to the cabin door, if I pull him away he is doing 360s high alert pulling me back to the cabin door.

I feel bad because I want him to enjoy the trip, but I also don’t want to force him into situations that make him uncomfortable. I find it interesting that even though it’s his first time at this cabin, he already considers the cabin (and especially his crate) his safe place.
Has anyone else experienced this with their dog, especially around 1 year old? Is this just an adolescent fear phase, or is there something I should be doing to help him build confidence in new places without overwhelming him?

Hey Everyone! I got my buddy Walter a few months ago. He was 10 months old when I got him, spent most of his time inside and in a crate. He just turned 1 yo, he’s a great dog but gets overstimulated in new places quickly and gets scared/uncomfortable. For example, He’s not a fan of walks and especially walks from the car to the store are terrifying for him. I am bringing him to a quieter place up north in Michigan near the Lake, looking for any tips or tricks to making him feel comfortable in a new place for a week!

Hey Everyone, the following has been popping up all over my yard. Super hard to get them all and keep the dog from finding them before I do.

Is this one of the super deadly destroying angel fungi?