No one But Me Will Do

by Barbara
(New Jersey)

My almost 2 yr-old golden retriever suddenly won't walk with anyone but me. I have always walked him in the morning, my daughter in the afternoon and my husband in the evening. Now he won't budge off the front lawn with them but if I come out and take the leash, he happily trots away with me.

He also seems to be a little more attached to me in the house. He had a hot spot last week and really wasn't feeling well. Is it possible that that has affected him or could it be his age? I would appreciate any insight to the change and any ideas on what to do. Thanks.


Response from Golden Retriever Magic:

This may represent a variant of separation anxiety. If you are the person he interacts with most, he may feel nervous when you are not around. This is a known issue in dogs in general.

Although the hot spot can undoubtedly make him uncomfortable, I don't believe it would changes his behavior in this manner. Please check out the page on hot spots in the health section for more information on this condition.

One suggestion would be to have your daughter and husband play more with your Golden. Also they should give him his meals and his favorite treats. This would foster trust and may make him more amenable to walks with them.

If that is also not working, please check with your vet on further ways to make your Golden more comfortable with other members of your family.