I have this problem too. I keep a broom by my back door. don't get me wrong, I would never touch them with it, but if I reach for it, they back up and I am able to get out the door.
The door thing, I have an expen block off the front door, because I have always had to pick Otis up. This is working well, and I've noticed that even if it's not completely closed, he will not pass the gate to get to the door.
__________________ ~Paula~ proud mommy of
~Otis  (yorkie) & Oliver  (shih-poo) |