What if your dog stops walking and won't move? This can be a concerning scenario for any pup parent. Here, our vets in Picayune explain potential reasons this may happen and what you can do.
Reasons Dogs Stop Walking & Refuse to Move
If you've ever taken a dog for a walk and they've suddenly stopped walking and refused to move, you're likely very concerned. There are a few things you should know, though. First: you aren't alone. Our Picayune 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.
1. Your Dog Has Been Injured
If your dog doesn't want to walk, it may be because they are suffering from a minor or severe injury. 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 do 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're able to find the source of the wound, then call your vet to book an appointment. You'll likely be provided first aid instructions to follow. If you're unable to 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.
2. They Are Afraid 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 you've discovered the source of your dog's fear, you can begin to desensitize your dog to the trigger (if it's safe to do so), 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 how to appropriately manage your dog's fear safely and efficiently.
3. They Are Suffering From Joint Pain
If your dog is experiencing long-term pain in their joints, they may sometimes stop walking. Hip dysplasia and arthritis are both common causes of joint pain in senior dogs. These conditions can be very painful for dogs, which means it's important to be able to recognize symptoms of joint pain, such as favoring one leg over the other when stopped or whimpering or yelping before stopping.
If you think your dog may be suffering from joint pain, we advise you to call your vet and book a comprehensive wellness examination, so the underlying cause can be determined. Your vet can also prescribe a treatment plan.
4. Not Enough Leash Training
Another common reason why your dog may refuse to keep walking is that they aren't used to going for walks on a leash or haven't gone for a leashed walk before.
If this is the case, you need to keep in mind 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. Do not skip this step because it could result in negative associations with walks and the equipment.
Then you can start putting the collar on them for brief periods at a time, 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, for training purposes, a lighter collar and leash are typically best.
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.
Don't forget to reward good behaviors with treats and to move at your dog's pace. If you need help leash training your dog, don't hesitate to contact your vet for advice.
Other Possible Reasons Why Your Dog Doesn't Want To Walk
If you don't think the above situations apply to your dog, here are some other potential causes:
- Your pooch is fatigued or 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
Ways to Get Your Dog Moving
Here are some additional tips and ways you can help your dog start moving 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 to get advice and book a physical examination because many of the potential causes are due to an underlying medical condition or even a veterinary emergency.
It's also key to note that if your dog stops walking, you shouldn't bribe them to keep moving or drag them as it could motivate this negative behavior or make it worse. It's also very important that you don't yell at or punish your dog because there could be many factors causing this issue. 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.