scared labrador puppy

Question
Hi. Looking for some advice on my female black lab. i just got her today from a couple who couldn't keep her anymore as the man was in hospital for an op. she is 9 months old. I have got her used to being in the house and following basic commands but the problem is when i take her out to the garden. She just lies down and won't move. I can't get her to do anything. She hasn't even done the toilet even after drinking a whole bowl of water. I only got her this morning but thought she would have at least gone once. any help would be gladly appreciated. thanks

Answer
Rehoming a dog that may have been poorly socialized could be a problem.  I would suggest giving her lots of attention.  Try what you can do of this too:

''Elevation for small puppies: Sit on the floor and gently put your hands around your pup's middle, below his front legs, and lift him up. He is facing you. Hold him for 15 seconds. Repeat until he no longer struggles. If he is past 10-12 weeks, lift his front feet off the ground, but don't pick him up.

Cradling for small puppies: Hold your puppy gently on his back, as you would cradle a small baby. If he struggles, hold him firmly until he quiets for 10-15 seconds. With larger pups, you can do this as your sit on the floor, with your pup between your legs.

Quiet lying down: Place your pup on the floor on his side, with all 4 legs pointing away from you. Use your hands on his neck/shoulder area and middle, to hold him in this position. When he is quiet, praise him. Lengthen the time that you keep him quietly in this position. When he accepts this position well, handle his paws and muzzle, while keeping him quiet.''

The quotes mean this isn't my original work. It is copied from my Puppy Raising Manual. I have long used these or minor variations of them, and they are very effective. You may want to give him a belly rub while he is on his back too. Helps bonding. There is a big difference between him rolling over and demanding a belly rub, and you choosing a time to roll him over and rub his belly. The latter cements your place as pack leader.