12 year old springer spaniels dont like to go on walks

Question
Normal routine is a daily walk at noon and then an evening walk.
We have owned each spring since pups.  They are in excellent shape with no health issues.  We feed them Innova dog food.  Paws and pads are in good shape.  
Over the last month it has gotten harder and harder to go on the noon walk.  They either walk very slow or almost refuse to walk.  When we turn for home they speed up.
Any suggestions welcome!
Jeff


Answer
Jeff,

I am going to assume that there have been zero incidents that would have scared them while walking.  I'm also going to assume that they have no problems being outside or walking at other times of the day?

I don't know spaniels that well.  However any 12 year old dog is OLD (84 in human years) and may be suffering from arthritis-like ailments.  It may hurt for them to walk.  Have them examined at the vet. It may be as simple as an over the counter anti-inflammatory to make them feel better.  It may be more serious and they might be in pain.  Problems intensify in these instances if they are overweight.

IF the vet sees no problems I would try to maintain the daily routine.  Encourage the pups with a treat in hand for the halfway point. See if the weather/temperature has any impact on their behavior as you maintain the walk.

I hope that helps!
Dave