dog doesnt seem to like going outside?

Question
Hello Ailigh,  

I have a 3 year old black lab who is so wonderful in every aspect except for
getting him started on his walks.  He especially won't go if it's raining, but
even on pleasant days (at all times of the day), he just stops at the end of the
driveway and won't budge.  I thought maybe there's a certain direction he
wants to go, but i've tried every possible way, and it takes so much coaxing
and a treat in my hand to get him going (slowly!!)   This also happens
throughout the walk, where he will just slow down and stop and look at me as
if trying to say something, but i'm not sure what...he would rather the sniff
the flowers than exert any energy it seems!

I have added a walk (4 times a day) as well as more visits to the dog park this
summer, since the vet said he should lose weight. I have also reduced his
food portions.  Perhaps it is too much activity for him? But even first thing in
the morning when he should be full of energy, he doesn't want to go, and this
habit occurred before i started his 'diet' and 'exercise' regime!


I guess the most crucial question is if you have any idea why he doesn't like
to leave our home property, and how i can get him to go for real walks.
Any advice would be appreciated!  

Answer
I would initially cut the walks down a bit - maybe to 2 a day and keep doing what you are doing.  Encourage him with a "lets go" command then click and treat (if you clicker train) or treat with a reward work every few steps.  Gradually increasing the steps before a reward.

I would make sure he is feeling Ok and not in pain.  If his hip, leg or paw hurt, this maybe why he is hesitant to walk.

If he isn't hurting, maybe something happened on a walk or when he was outside to concern him?