There can be many common reasons why your dog doesn't want to walk sometimes, like getting distracted by nature. Here, our vets in Southern Wisconsin discuss what to do if your dog stops walking and won't move and the reasons why they won't move.
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 Southern Wisconsin 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 Dog Has an Injury
When a dog experiences an injury, then walking may be difficult, and they may even refuse because of the pain. These 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.
Your Dog Might 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 your dog 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 Furry Friend Has 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 is showing any signs of joint pain, we advise you to call your vet and book a comprehensive wellness examination to determine the underlying cause. Your vet can also prescribe a treatment plan.
Your Pup is in Need of More Training
One of the simplest reasons your dog isn't walking well is that they aren't used to it.
If this is the case, you need to remember that this could be an overwhelming or frightening experience 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 is always recommended when your dog walks well and listens to your prompts. If your dog struggles, you should contact your vet for a consultation.
Why Your Dog Stops Walking & Won't Move
If the causes listed above don't seem to fit your dog, here are some other issues to consider:
- 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 Get Your Dog Walking Better
Here, our vets offer some advice on how you may be able to get your dog walking again:
- 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 or even a veterinary emergency.
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.