Below is a quip of an email that I received from a client this morning. It is one of the most common questions that I hear from new puppy owners. From about 8-15 weeks of age is the time when owners see what I call "Stuck pup"-a puppy that stops and just won't budge.

"We are having some trouble getting him to go on
walks with us. He is willing to follow a group of people, but tends to drag
his feet or completely stop and plant his feet in the ground".

Here is my answer:

What you are experiencing right now is very typical puppy behavior. Usually it starts because for some reason the pup felt tension on the leash or perhaps something spooked them. Maybe you are walking and he stops to sniff something but you kept on walking. Dogs (and pups!) have what is called "oppositional reflex". If they feel tension on their neck, they will automatically pull against it. Some pull forward (your next behavior challenge!) and some against it.

While your pup is this small you can try a few of the following, either separate, or all together.

-Be sure to release all tension on the leash, face the pup and have a mini party. Start to talk in high pitched squeals and slap your thighs in an effort to get him to come over to you. When he does, praise!

-Try bringing a squeaky toy and throwing it in the general direction you want him to go in.

-throw a biscuit

-try going in the other direction and circling back

-when all else fails it is perfectly fine to pick him up and help him out of stuck mode that way. Usually when you put them back down they are fine.

-Try keeping all tension off the leash all the time. If he starts to balk, go back into cajoling mode. Don't forget lots of praise.

-Try being a game your puppy can win. Catch him before he stops, and make it in his best interest to run to you with training aids like praise treats and toys.

-Never use harsh tones or physical corrections. Be the person your pup wants to run to.

-Keep your expectations low. Puppy will not be ready for a brisk walk around the block for sometime.

-Be sure to allow him time to explore his world.

-It is possible that he is tired and that is something to consider as well.

-Do not pound the pavement (jog) with your puppy until they are at least one year old. Their growth plates are still forming.

-Remember we have to animate ourselves to motivate our dogs.

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