When a puppy needs to get exercise, it’s not always as simple as you want it to be.
Puppies are adapting to their environment and will be new to everything. This also makes scary experiences outside more lasting in their minds.
You will need to understand what is going on that is causing a puppy to not want to go outside. This includes learning how to walk a puppy that doesn’t want to walk.
To walk a puppy that doesn’t want to walk, start with a safe space such as a backyard. Over time, begin to walk short distances, keep the dog hydrated, and let them pace the walk on their own.
Puppies are still learning and that includes going for walks.
This guide is going to show you how to walk a puppy that doesn’t want to walk and what to incorporate during the coming months. It won’t happen in one day and that is something you will need to keep in mind during the process.
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Tips On How To Walk A Puppy That Doesn’t Want To Walk
1. Start In The Backyard Or Somewhere Close
It’s important to keep things simple and start in the backyard.
This will make it easier for the puppy to walk short distances in a place they’re familiar with. A lot of puppies hesitate because there’s overstimulation associated with walking along new routes.
You will always want to look to start the puppy off in a part of the house that is outside but still nearby.
This is why the backyard works well.
If you don’t have a backyard then choose any outdoor spot that is close to the house. It should be a small area that is not going to have other animals and/or loud noises.
The puppy should be able to walk freely and enjoy their time while observing an area they are familiar with.
It is similar to a puppy walking indoors around the house.
2. Stick To Short Distances
Let’s assume you want to take a look at moving things forward when it comes to walking your puppy outdoors.
You might not want to stick to the backyard.
If that is the case, it’s important to have a plan in mind. To do this, you are going to stick to short distances and ensure the puppy doesn’t get tired or feels like things are dragging for too long.
Look to walk in short bursts.
This is how you are going to earn the puppy’s trust and they will be eager to walk. It is also best to stick to the same route each time as that builds familiarity and comfort.
3. Make The Walks Fun
Walking is not always fun for a puppy that is apprehensive.
You will want the puppy something to look forward to as it walks.
This can include playing fetch or doing something that is going to get the puppy excited. This is going to help them associate going outside with having fun.
When they begin to build this connection, it becomes a lot easier to get the puppy to go out for a walk. You never want it to be a situation where the walks are dull and don’t work out as you want them to.
4. Let The Puppy Set The Pace
Puppies need to be able to set the pace for a walk.
This does not mean they take you wherever they want but you will need to let them set the speed of the walk.
For example, if they want to stop for a while, it’s okay to let them sniff around. Don’t try to drag your dog.
As long as you are sticking to your route, the rest can be controlled by the puppy.
This will entice them to want to go outside as it is fun for them to walk around.
Final Thoughts
These tips will help as you figure out how to walk a puppy that doesn’t want to walk.
To walk a puppy that doesn’t want to walk, it’s best to start in the backyard or somewhere familiar. Next, walk short distances along the same route, make the walks fun using toys, and let the puppy set the speed.
This is how you are going to earn the puppy’s trust and it will want to go out for walks with you.
Don’t assume it is going to happen automatically.
This is when mistakes are made and puppies become unhappy with what is happening. It’s important to let the dog adapt to what is occurring as that is how they are going to stay happy.
When you implement these tips, you will realize the puppy is going to have a lot of fun along the way.
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