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Puppy hesitant to start walks on leash

Posted by:  Annette Jarred
Category:   General Training
Posted on:  June 22, 2001 at 12:37:57

Question:

Hi, I really enjoy the website and am learning alot from it. I haven't seen my question answered here yet or anywhere else on the web for that matter! We have an adorable 5 month old male JRT who is learning quickly and fitting in wonderfully with our family. He has adjusted well to walking on a leash and we enjoy brisk 15-20 minute walks now. The problem is getting him started each time...he seems to want to stay glued to the ground in front of our house. If I pick him up and walk to the end of the block, he will walk with me very nicely around the neighborhood, but for some bizarre reason if we are close to home he plants his little rear on the ground and stares at me. I've tried short little tugs on the leash, luring him with treats and encouragement, etc...but we go through the same thing every time we try to get started. Right now I am just using a nylon snap-on collar and I really would prefer not to use any of the choking or pinching type collars if possible, and I certainly don't want to pull him along and possibly hurt his trachea. Like I said, once I get him going I have no problem with the rest of the walk, he seems to really enjoy it. Any advice on how to get him started without the struggle every time?