Refusing to Go Further

by Kim
(Georgia)

My 11 month old Golden apparently does not like going for walks. He stops before we even get down the driveway. I just stay in the lead, look straight ahead, pull on the leash, and say “let’s go”. That works until we get further along in our walk and then he will stop, sit down or lie down and not move until I turn around to head home.

I’ve already had my vet check to see it there are any problems that may be causing him pain or discomfort but he’s in good health and not over weight. If this is just a behavioral problem, does anyone have ideas on how to correct him? Thanks!


Response from Golden Retriever Magic:

I am happy to hear that your Golden has been checked by the vet and is in good health--that is the primary issue you want to resolve. If the vet has ruled out that this is a physical issue, it appears that this is a behavioral issue.

One suggestion is to use positive reinforcement to try to get your Golden to enjoy walks more. Keep his favorite treats in your pocket and try to coax him to come along using those treats as enticement.

Set reasonable goals for yourself in terms of distance traveled. These goals should be small increases in distance. Set reasonable expectations from your Golden so you (and he) won't get frustrated easily. Remember to praise him heartily when he does walk a little further that the previous time.

For further useful tips on this and other behavioral issues, please see some of these dog training books that I have specifically evaluated and selected. These will surely help your training efforts.

If he is still not coming despite the lure of his favorite treats, please consider consulting your vet again.