training a one year old lab

Question
I recently got a sweet one year old lab. she is rather
submissive. I am fostering her from the local animal
shelter. I have noticed that she will not pee or poop while
I have her on the leash. the only way she will go is when
she is off the leash and allowed to run. she is however
housebroken.
my home is on a corner lot and i am afraid to that she will
get hit by a car if i allow her to continue off the leash
and i do not want her going in other people's yards.
when i do have her own the leash she does not pull she
walks right next to me, she does not even smell when i stop
she just stops right along side me.
can you please help me with some suggestions.
thanks

Answer
Hi BJ-

This is pretty common for dogs that are used to yards. Leashes are usually only used for fun walks or to go out to places like petsmart, or car rides, so they figure they aren't allowed to pee/poop on leash.

My suggestion would be to try a very LONG leash, like a flexi lead (make sure its a TAPE flexi, and not a cord) or a long tracking leash, and try something like sitting down and just holding the leash and letting her walk around that way. She will figure it out eventually. Just try not to walk around, and when she goes PRAISE PRAISE PRAISE!!! and give cookies. The long leash should only be used when you want her to potty, so she knows the difference.

Hope this helps!