walking problems

Question
My dog refuses to walk with me with a leash. I cannot give her a gentle tug or anything to start walking because all she does is sit down until I give up. Shes very shy and anxious dog. When I let go of the leash she follows me easily, but she just does not want me holding the leash while I walk her. What can I do?

Answer
Dear Shii,

I need to know the following information before I can answer your question:
What is your dog's age?
How old was she when you got her?
Is there any history before you owned her that may be pertinent?
What breed is she?
Do you live in an urban, suburban, or rural area?
Have you taken an obedience class with this dog, and if so, how did she do?
Will the dog obey any commands and if so, which ones?
Describe your typical day and the dog's typical day hour by hour (where you are and where she is, what she is doing).

Thanks
Suzanne Harris, BSc, CPDT
http://www.dogdaysusa.com