3. Insecurity or overstimulation

Not every non-walking dog is fearful; some are overstimulated. Too many impressions at once can cause a shutdown. Poorly socialised dogs or those with little experience in busy places may block on walks. Heavy traffic, unfamiliar sounds, crowds or lots of dogs can be too much. Highly sensitive or nervous dogs pick up more signals and can develop stress or avoidance. It looks like refusal, but they simply can’t process more.

Offer calm, predictability and safety. Choose quiet routes and build up gradually so your dog relearns relaxed walking. A simple routine helps. Watch body language like yawning or trembling as early signs it’s getting too much. Supportive products such as the Adaptil Calm Diffuser, Dr. Ann’s Stress Reduction or Zylkene can lower the arousal threshold. At home, provide a quiet, consistent resting spot for recovery after walks.

4. Low motivation or boredom

Some dogs don’t automatically enjoy walks. Routes might be too predictable or, conversely, too long and tiring. Young, active or clever dogs can bore easily if there’s little challenge. Result: dawdling, stopping or refusing. For dogs, walks are more than exercise; they’re for sniffing, exploring and teamwork with you. If this need is ignored, motivation drops.

5. Environmental factors or routine changes

Many dogs are sensitive to changes in environment or routine. Think of a new collar or harness, a different area, rain, or subtle things like new smells or surfaces. What seems trivial to us can feel unpleasant or uncertain to your dog.

Time of day also matters. In the evening dogs are often more tired, see less well, and may be startled by lights, noises or moving shadows. If your dog is reluctant at certain times or in specific situations, observe calmly what’s different. Small changes, like a familiar location or another time, can help.

If refusal continues, a qualified behaviourist can help pinpoint the cause.

How does your dog show refusal?

Dogs communicate subtly. Refusal isn’t always growling, pulling or barking. Small signals can clearly show stress, tension or overload. Watch for:

• Looking away
• Lip-licking or yawning
• Tail tucked
• Hesitating at the door
• Flattening to the ground
• Hiding or withdrawing

What to do when your dog won’t walk?

Work step by step.

1. Check health first

Rule out physical causes: joint or muscle pain, age-related issues, neurological problems. Even mild arthritis can reduce willingness to move. Have your vet examine your dog. Sometimes pain relief, appropriate diet or physiotherapy makes a big difference.

2. Build confidence gradually

Forcing often backfires. An insecure or tense dog is more likely to shut down. Never drag your dog forward; it can worsen the problem. Start small with positive associations:

• Clip on the lead indoors and reward.
• Step a few metres outside and return.
• Extend gradually as your dog relaxes.

Some dogs benefit from walking with a calm, social dog as a role model.

3. Choose quiet routes and times

Environmental stimuli matter more than you think. Avoid busy roads, loud noises or unpredictable situations. Prefer quiet hours, such as early morning. Some dogs see less well, for example with cataracts, or tire as the day goes on, making evenings harder.

4. Use positive motivation

Sniffing is relaxing. Reward curiosity, not just forward movement:

• Encouraging voice
• Toys or small training treats
• Time and space for plenty of sniffing

5. Make walks predictable

Dogs thrive on routine. With fear or uncertainty, predictability brings calm. Temporarily choose:

• One fixed route
• Walks at set times
• The same collar or harness

Once your dog feels safe, gradually expand again. With small steps, patience and positive reinforcement, you’ll rebuild confidence.

What if a dog is never walked?

Dogs miss far more than toilet breaks. They lack exercise and mental stimulation and miss social interaction with other dogs, people and the wider environment. Over time this can lead to overweight, boredom, frustration and behaviour problems like barking, destruction or even aggression. Even dogs with garden access benefit from regular walks: there’s more to discover outside — new scents, sounds, stimuli and tracks — their way to explore, gather information and relax through sniffing and movement.

A healthy dog can manage eight to ten hours without a walk in an emergency, but that should be exceptional. Aim for at least three to four short walks daily, with one longer, decompressing walk. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health issues often need different schedules. Adjust accordingly.

Still have questions about why your dog won’t walk? Contact us at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.