My dog stops walking and won’t move. What’s causing this?

Original Question: Hi I have a healthy 6-year-old Golden Retriever that has just decided that he wants to sit down and refuse to walk mid walk. He has no medical issues and I am convinced that this is totally a behaviour issue. If I put him in the car and take him for a walk down by the lake he has boundless energy. I do try and change up his route when we walk on a daily basis but this has not helped. I have tried several techniques to get him to move but all have failed. Any suggestions. I don't want to be one of those people with an overweight Golden! - Debbie

Sep 7, 2017

Hi Debbie,

This certainly sounds like an odd problem. If your veterinarian has not found any medical conditions, then behavioral seems possible. It could be that there is something along the walking routes that is disconcerting to him and this could be a fear type response, particularly if the action is the same in the same location repeatedly. Alternatively, we could look at the various factors including weather but also the apparatus he is being walked on (collar, harness, halter). Working on positive reinforcement while getting him to do what you want is likely the best way to start. If concerned about this behavior, it might be best to meet up with a certified dog behaviorist or trainer in your area to have them along on a series of walks to witness the concern first hand.