There can be many reasons your canine companion sometimes doesn't want to walk, like getting distracted by the world around them. Here, our vets in Merced discuss what to do if your dog doesn't want to walk and what may be stopping them.
Reasons Why Your Dog Doesn't Want to Walk
You are walking with your dog when suddenly they sit down and stop walking. You will likely wonder why this is happening. The first thing you should know is that you are not alone. Our Merced vets have discussed this issue with many pet owners often enough, as it can be frustrating and. difficult to manage. This is especially true if you don't understand why they are stopping or what to do next. Today, we'll share some reasons your dog may have stopped walking and how you can get them moving again.
Your Pup is Injured
When a dog experiences an injury, walking may be difficult, and they may even refuse because of the pain. These injuries can range from a hurt paw pad or nail to something more serious, such as a foreign object stuck in a limb or an open wound.
If you think your dog may have been injured, stop walking immediately and examine their legs and paw pads for any obvious injuries. Take photos if you can find the source of the wound, then call your vet to schedule an examination. You'll likely be provided first aid instructions to follow. If you cannot find the source of the injury, you'll still need to contact your vet for advice and to arrange an appointment.
Meanwhile, you can prevent the injury from worsening by calling a friend or family member to pick you and your dog up.
They May Be Scared of Something
If a dog is scared of something in their environment, they may refuse to walk or keep moving. Young puppies who are in their 'fear phase' and adult dogs walking in an unfamiliar environment commonly experience this (especially true if they tend to be anxious or fearful or have a history of trauma).
Physical symptoms of fear in dogs include a tail tucked under their body, crouched body posture, and laid-back ears. They may also breathe heavily or abnormally.
The first thing you'll want to do when addressing this issue is to locate the source of their fear. This may include a sign, a trash can, a noise, another dog walking by, or a scent you didn't notice. If the source is a specific sight or smell, they may stop in the same spot each time you walk by it.
After discovering the source of your dog's fear, you can begin desensitizing them to the trigger (if it's safe) and help them build their confidence. While the precise steps required to desensitize your dog can differ based on the specific fear they're experiencing, here are some basic actions you can take:
- Determine the source of the fear and build resistance to it.
- Offer rewards (without rewarding negative behaviors).
- Use commands to redirect your dog's attention.
If you know your dog is experiencing fear, contact your vet to book an appointment. Your veterinarian can help by offering specific tips and advice on managing your dog's fear safely and efficiently.
Your Dog is Experiencing Joint Pain
If your dog is experiencing long-term joint pain, it may sometimes stop walking. Hip dysplasia and arthritis are common causes of joint pain in senior dogs. These conditions can be very painful for dogs, so it's important to recognize symptoms of joint pain, such as favoring one leg over the other when stopped or whimpering or yelping before stopping.
If your dog shows any signs of joint pain, we advise you to contact your vet and book a comprehensive wellness examination to determine the underlying cause. Your vet can also prescribe a treatment plan.
You Have a Puppy (or Older Dog) Who Needs More Training
When we see a dog that doesn't seem to want to walk, it often comes down to it being a new experience.
If this is the case, you should remember that this could be overwhelming or frightening for your pooch, so it's best to start them out slowly, introducing the process gradually. Begin by showing them one piece of equipment at a time, letting them sniff and get to know the gear as you pass them treats. It's important to allow your pup to become comfortable with the equipment.
Then, you can start putting the collar on them for brief periods, gradually increasing time intervals, starting with a few seconds and increasing the time until they are used to it.
It's also essential to select a properly fitting and weighted collar for your dog by carefully reading the size guidelines and recommendations on the packaging. However, a lighter collar and leash are typically best for training purposes.
Before taking your dog for a walk on a leash, let them wander around your home with the collar on for several days, so they get used to the feeling. Then, you can start taking your dog for leashed walks in your home. Gradually, you can introduce your dog to outdoor walks in areas such as a fenced backyard or an enclosed dog run.
Positive reinforcement should be used when your dog walks well and listens to your prompts. If your dog struggles, consult your vet.
Why Your Dog Stops Walking & Won't Move
If none of the reasons listed above seem quite right then you may want to consider the following:
- Your pooch is tired
- It's too hot or cold outside for your dog
- Your dog's walking gear (leash, collar) is uncomfortable for them
- They want to keep walking more
- Your dog needs to get more exercise and stimulation out of their walks
- Their walks are too long for them
How to Train Your Dog to Walk Well
Here are some things you may want to try to get your dog to walk well with you:
- Start walking faster when going through interesting locations
- Choose one specific side for your dog to walk on to prevent pulling
- Spice up your usual walk and take other routes
- Stop walking and restrict their access to objects they are interested in (this will help them realize the only way to walk is with you).
- Implement proper leash training
- Reward good walking behaviors
If your dog stops walking and won't move, it's always a good idea to call your vet for advice and to book a physical examination. Many potential causes are due to an underlying medical condition.
It's important to remember that you shouldn't force them to go further, as this may only make your problem worse. Negative responses, such as yelling, may also cause a negative reaction and should be avoided. This is why we say, 'When in doubt, contact your vet.'
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.