Going for a walk with your dog is beneficial for you both. Getting exercise is always a bonus!
But what do you do if your dog tries to lay down while out for a walk? They are likely out of shape and tired. The best thing you can do is give them a break, some water, and try again after resting.
However, if you have concerns about your dog’s health, read on to learn more reasons your dog may try to lay down on walks or is not interested in walking.
Why Dogs Lay Down on Walks
Some of the most common reasons your furry friend is likely to lie down on walks include:
- Boredom
- Laziness
- Feeling ignored by you
- Lack of motivation
- Fear
- Lack of confidence
If you take the same route every time, the dog might become bored and protest by dropping down and refusing to continue walking. Your pet may do the same if the walk is too long. The dog might feel ignored and frustrated if you keep texting and checking your phone.
A lazy dog may lack the motivation to continue walking, and treats may motivate it to keep going. Fear of other dogs might make your friend cower close to the grass. Finally, if you don’t make it clear that you’re in charge of the walk, the dog may lack the confidence to continue.
What To Do With a Lazy Dog
Obesity in pets is just as prevalent in America as obesity in humans. Dogs raised in tiny homes or apartments without much room to run can pack on the pounds fast.
These dogs often eat cheap, calorie-dense kibble or even human junk food such as sweets or packaged meats.
Going for walks is a great way to get your dog moving, but you will see some resistance if it’s not something you often do. Most dogs love to walk or even run, but it can be an adjustment if they are couch potatoes.
One of the best ways to get your dog to enjoy walks is to start small. Instead of going out for one hour twice a day, try twenty minutes three times a day. On hot days, bring water for them to drink. Keep an eye out for signs of exhaustion so you will learn to turn back before it gets too bad.
Note that smaller dogs have more difficulty walking long distances because of their shorter legs. A lab may have no issues walking around the block five times, whereas a chihuahua may only make it twice.
Different breeds tend to have different energy levels. Collies, shepherds, and terriers tend to be hyper and high-energy. Bulldogs, pugs, and mastiffs all tend to be low-energy.
Obesity can be dangerous in dogs and lead to other issues like heart disease, joint problems, and diabetes. If you want to ensure your pup lives a long, healthy life, it needs to get plenty of activity even if it may not be inclined to do so on its own.
Dog Walking and Seasons
It can be tempting to try and take advantage of every sunny day and enjoy some time outside. However, you must use caution when walking your dog out when it is warm. Even temperatures in the seventies can put your dog at risk of heat stroke, especially for flat-faced breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, or boxers.
Even a short walk on a hot day could be dangerous for your pup.
Walking on a paved road or sidewalk can increase the heat and is especially dangerous for your dog’s uncovered paws. Streets and sidewalks are typically anywhere from forty to sixty degrees warmer than the air temperature if not shaded.
If it is a seventy-degree sunny day, your pet could be walking on one hundred and ten-degree ground.
If your dog is lying down during a walk, it’s possible that his feet are sore or even burned from walking on hot pavement. Check your dog’s paws for any discoloration, redness, or blistering. If you suspect your dog is injured, take your pet to the vet immediately.
Vets suggest testing the temperature by placing the back of your hand on the ground for five to ten seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pup.
You can take your dog to a dogpark or grassy area where the ground is cooler or invest in doggie foot protection like boots or sneakers. In a pinch, you could always throw some socks on your dog’s feet as a layer of extra protection. The approach also works during winter.
Water-based activities are a great idea to get your pup some exercise during the warmer months. Most dogs automatically know how to swim, but if you are worried about them, you can always get them a lifejacket.
Even if it’s not full-blown swimming, offering your dog a hose or sprinkler to cool off in will likely excite them.
Training Your Dog To Take Walks
Walking can be a battle if you have a new puppy with little to no training or maybe an older dog due to the leash, the new environment, or sheer stubbornness. If you’re working on dog training, ensure your dog has a comfortable collar or harness to make the process as enjoyable as possible.
Never pull, drag, or yank your dog’s leash unless it is in immediate danger. When starting leash training, let it get used to the leash by letting it hang loose as it goes about its day. Monitor it closely, so it doesn’t get tangled up in anything.
Work on leash training inside or in the backyard until the dog is comfortable.
Always bring treats and water on any walk, even a short one. You want your dog to know that this is a good thing to enjoy and not a punishment.
If other dogs are in the area, steer clear until you know that your pup is happy to enjoy walking. You don’t want a bad encounter with another dog to spoil its view of walks.
In Conclusion
Dogs lie down on walks when tired, bored, lazy, or in discomfort. Identifying the reason they are lying down can bring resolution to the behavior. Keep an eye on your best friend to eliminate the causes it’s likely to lie down.
