How to Stop Your Dog From Lying Down on Walks

Is your daily dog walk turning into a series of unexpected pit stops, with your furry friend flopping down mid-stride? While a relaxed dog is a good thing, a dog that constantly lies down on walks can be frustrating and even disruptive. This common behavior, often seen in a variety of dog breeds and at various dog ages, can stem from a few different reasons.

Understanding the "why" is the first step in addressing the "how to."

Why Do Dogs Lie Down on Walks?

Before we dive into the solutions, let's consider some of the reasons your dog might be lying down on your walks:

Tiredness or Overwhelm (Long Walks, Puppy Walking):

If your dog is a young puppy, an older senior dog, or simply not used to long walks, your pup might get tired quickly. Over-stimulation in a new or busy environment can also be overwhelming, leading your dog to seek comfort by lying down. This is particularly relevant for new puppies on their first few outdoor adventures.

Some dogs like to explore their environment and might want to even eat different items on their walks which you would want to stop as well.

Fear or Anxiety 

Some dogs, especially fearful dogs or anxious dogs, might lie down as a way to cope with something in their environment that scares them. This could be a loud noise, another dog, a person, or an unfamiliar object; your dog might be trying to make himself smaller or avoid a perceived threat.

Overheating

On hot weather walks, your dog might be trying to cool their belly on the cooler ground. This is especially true for brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) who are more prone to overheating.

Pain or Discomfort

If this is a new behavior for your dog or if your dog is also showing other signs of discomfort like limping, dog joint pain, or reluctance to move, they might be experiencing physical pain. Take your pet to the vet if you think this is the case.

Seeking Attention 

Some clever canines quickly learn that lying down gets them a reaction from their human whether this is pleading, coaxing, or even treats. This is a classic attention-seeking dog behavior.

Desire to Stay in a Spot

Your dog might simply be captivated by a smell or something interesting on the ground and want to investigate it thoroughly. This is common with scent dogs or a stubborn dog who has found something truly captivating.

Lack of Training or Leash Skills 

If your dog hasn't been properly trained early on in loose leash walking, your dog could be using lying down as a way to resist pulling or dictate the pace of the walk.

How to Stop Your Dog From Lying Down on Walks: Practical Strategies

Now for the solutions! Addressing this behavior requires a multi-faceted approach, focusing on positive reinforcement and understanding your dog's needs.

Start with a Health Check

Before assuming it’s a behavioral issue, rule out any medical reasons. A dog with joint problems, paw injuries, or underlying health issues may be lying down to avoid pain. Check their paws for cuts, burns (especially from hot pavement), or lodged debris. If this behavior is new and persistent, a vet visit is the best place to start.

Training and Positive Reinforcement (Loose Leash Walking, Dog Training)

This is where the bulk of your effort will likely lie.

1. Teach the “Let's Go" or "Heel" (Loose Leash Walking, Dog Training Tips):

Try to consistently use a cue like "Let's Go" or "Heel" while walking. When your dog is moving forward nicely, reward them with a high-value treat and praise. The goal is to make loose leash walking enjoyable and rewarding.

2. Reward Forward Movement (Positive Reinforcement Dog Training):

Every few steps your dog takes without lying down, reward your dog. This reinforces the desired behavior. Start with frequent rewards and gradually space them out. This is a core principle of positive reinforcement dog training. It doesn’t always have to be treats and can be merely praise, a rub down or an encouraging pat each time will do the trick.

3. The "Lure and Reward" Technique (Dog Training Techniques):

If your dog lies down, use a treat to lure them back into a standing position and take a few steps. As soon as they stand and move forward, reward them. Avoid pulling on the leash, as this can create a negative association with walking.

4. Change of Direction (Walking Drills):

If your dog lies down, immediately change direction. This can disrupt your dog’s focus on lying down and encourage your dog to move with you. This is a simple yet effective walking drill.

5. Avoid Giving Attention (Attention-Seeking Behavior):

If you think your dog is lying down for attention, try to avoid making eye contact or talking to your dog when he or she does it. Wait for your dog to stand up on their own (even for a second) before rewarding. This helps to end this attention-seeking behavior.

6. Short, Frequent Training Sessions (Consistent Training):

Don't try to "fix" the problem on one long walk. Incorporate short, frequent training sessions into your day, focusing on getting a few steps of good walking before rewarding. Consistent training is key to success. And try to make it fun!

7. Use the Right Equipment (Comfortable Harness, Dog Leash):

Make sure that your dog's harness or collar is comfortable and fits properly. A well-fitting comfortable harness can prevent discomfort that might lead to lying down. A standard dog leash of appropriate length is also important.

8. Be Patient & Consistent

Changing behavior takes time. If your dog refuses to walk outside or frequently lies down during walks, consistency is key. Stick to a regular walking routine and avoid giving up or carrying your dog unless it’s absolutely necessary. Each time you carry your dog or end the walk after he or she lies down, your dog will learn that lying down is an effective way to get what they want.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've tried these strategies consistently and your dog is still frequently lying down, or if the behavior is accompanied by aggression, extreme fear, or other concerning issues, it's time to seek professional help. A certified professional dog trainer or a dog behaviorist can provide personalized guidance and create a tailored training plan for your specific dog and situation.

Final Thoughts: Helping Your Dog Enjoy Their Walks Again

Learning how to stop your dog from lying down on walks is about more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s about understanding your dog’s emotional and physical state and working with your pup to build confidence and trust. Whether your dog is scared, stubborn, or simply learning, the right combination of patience, motivation, and positive reinforcement can get those paws moving again.