My dog refuses to walk - what can I do?

B
Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone, I have a Frenchie who is almost 2 years old (1 year and 11 months, to be exact). I’m having a bit of a nightmare at the moment; every time we go for a walk, whether it’s a quick stroll or a longer outing, she just refuses to budge and there’s nothing I can do. I’ve looked for advice online and I've even seen a dog behaviourist!

But nothing is working. I’ve tried to figure out if she’s scared or in pain, I’ve tried being really encouraging and even bringing a toy (though she couldn't care less about toys when we're outside!). I’ve also tried using treats but it’s no use, she just won't move...

Does anyone have any tips or advice they could give me?

Have a lovely day!!

Translated from French
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11 answers
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    • B
    Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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    Evening, thanks for your reply! I think I might try popping out to buy a new toy that makes a different noise to the others... I hadn't actually thought of that! It might just motivate her or get her interested in a new toy. Thanks so much!
    Translated from French
    M
    Mikado Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi @Bibi27092000, How about trying a little squeaky toy? (I know you mentioned you've already tried toys, but if it makes a noise, it might catch her attention). Have you tried tossing a treat on the floor in front of her? She might move forward to get it, and then you could throw another one further away (even though I saw you've already tried using food). By 'treat', I mean it could be something your dog has never had before – the novelty of it might get her moving. Or perhaps something with a really strong smell.
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    B
    Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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    Yeah, when I'm in town I keep her on the lead because with the traffic and everything I'm scared to let her off... but yes, I'll try to take her to the park a bit more and give her a bit more stimulation! Thanks so much for all your advice and your replies anyway!
    Translated from French
    Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    If it’s the short walks she’s reluctant about, she’s probably just a bit bored. Gally often drags her feet on quick walks around the neighbourhood and much prefers big walks out in nature.

    Try taking her to the park more often :)

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    ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    And as for the walks, when you go for a proper walk in the park she's dead happy, but she won't have any of it for the short trips out. Ah, right, I see what you mean about the gear! Basically, walking through town just isn't stimulating for her. You'll probably have to get used to it—she clearly isn't a fan of urban environments. Do you maybe let her off the lead during the big walks? That would explain her "dislike" of the city, as I'm assuming you keep her on the lead for those urban outings?
    Translated from French
    B
    Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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    And as for walks, when we go for a proper walk in the park she’s happy as can be, but for the short outings she’s just not having it.

    Translated from French
    B
    Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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    Evening,

    So, I’m using a collar that fits properly and a suitable lead as well... I’ve already tried a harness but it’s even worse; I get the impression it really bothers her... 😕

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    ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Good evening,

    This might sound like a bit of a silly question... but what gear are you using to take her out?

    An ill-fitting harness or a clip that’s too bulky could be putting her off.

    Some friends of mine had a young Bulldog and couldn't understand why their dog (a puppy only a few months old) refused to walk on the lead.

    The answer was actually quite simple: the clip was too big and was bothering the pup...

    Even if your girl is an adult, it’s worth double-checking the little details that might seem insignificant.

    It could also just be that she isn’t exactly a massive fan of walks; it's rare, but it does happen...

    Translated from French
    B
    Bibi27092000 Icon representing the flag French
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    Thanks for your reply!

    No, she isn’t scared. I’ve seen a vet who told me there’s nothing wrong with her at all, and I’ve also seen a behaviourist...

    I have a second dog of the same breed and he doesn’t do that at all, he’s much more straightforward... so I’m not really sure what to do 😕

    Translated from French
    Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    So, is she scared? Have you seen a vet to check if she’s in any pain?

    Maybe a doggy friend to help motivate her?

    Translated from French

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