Problem with walking my puppy

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

My West Highland White Terrier is 4 months old when we go for a walk I don't make a fuss leave the house first and keep him on heel everything is fine until he just stops when I give a tug on the lead he then lays down and if I pull on the lead again he sort of digs in and I find I am nearly dragging him. Then we he is ready he will continue the walk the only time he stops this is when I give him free time about 20 minutes into the walk when he can be out front for 5 minutes. How can I stop him doing this, I tried treats or praise and it only made it worse.

ANSWER: Hi Sandra,

How far are you walking? 4 month old puppies haven't developed the ligaments/tendons/muscles to do long walks. He most likely is telling you he is tired and can't go and I certainly wouldn't force a young puppy to walk on tired soft tissues!  Free play in the backyard allows him to rest whenever he wants to.  

I'm not sure how you use treats, but if your dog is hungry and you've found the treat he really likes (NO DOG TREATS!)his motivation to be with you could be increased.  I need more information to really assess this one.

Jaz

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi,

Thanks for responding. I walk him about 2 blocks and have tried walking him after his meal and use the treats only when he gets up and follws me. For the last couple of nights I don't feed him first and he is better but still does it. Sometimes we only get as far as the next house before he sits and other times he walks for about 3 houses.

Sandra

Answer
Ah! Well your puppy will have much more motivation IF he's hungry instead of full from just eating.  No one says your puppy has to eat his meals from a bowl. You can use his food but outdoors, dogs usually need higher rewards. Be sure you use very high value treats!
He might not have the stamina for 2 blocks on some days versus other days. If he isn't in a puppy class yet with a positive trainer, now is the time to do it!

Jaz