Why won't Dakota stay outside?

Dogs are pack animals.

Hm…one idea: Old dogs often pant from pain.

Does she usually pant at 70?

She is hurting, granted, and we’re doing everything we can for that, but I am sure this is related to temperature. She’s always done it, and yes, at 70 degrees she pants. I can’t blame her. Imagine wearing a thick, heavy, double layered coat in 70 degree weather. It would be unbearable.

You could keep her indoors, and shave her. Older dogs can definitely pant due to pain. Geriatric dogs typically suffer from arthritis. There are some decent drugs on the market for this. They can make a big difference in quality of life. Your vet will need to run some lab work, to make sure her liver can handle the meds, so be prepared for that if you decide to look into it.

If you don’t want to shave her all the way, just get her armpits, and underbelly. Small fans are pretty inexpensive, and you could set one up by wherever she normally hangs out.

Good luck Dutch. I know you love your old lady.

We have meds from the vet for pain. Basically doggy nsaids.

Thanks you guys.

Aw, poor pup! I know that for me, cold = greatly increased body pain, even on serious pain meds. I stay inside as much as possible during the winter, and would even if it meant I was sweating hot inside. She may be choosing the lesser of two evils. Giving her a buzz cut might help, with maybe a doggy jacket for when she has to go out?

That’s the thing. It isn’t very cold out at all. It’s around 50 degrees. I am sure she’d be more comfortable outside but she won’t stay there. I guess she thinks she just can’t protect us if she’s outside or something. I don’t know.

Like @ragingloli said, she’s a pack animal and wants to be with you, her pack.