Why does my Maltese puppy refuse to walk on a leash and just lay down?

It is possible that Banba will not walk because of some medical problem such as hip dysplasia or even a cardiac condition. If she walks normally at home or in the yard, the source is behavioral. I would suggest a visit to the vet to rule out any physical reason for what she's doing. If she is healthy, I can help--just click on the prompt to initiate a consult.

Awww, Bella is so cute! I'm with you, I think an exam and some blood testing with your vet is worth it. You know her best so if you are worried it is better to be safe than sorry. Unfortunately, her symptoms are very non-specific so I can't venture much of a guess as to what may be going on. She is a bit young to have orthopedic issues but it is possible. Best to have her checked out. Hope she is back to feeling better soon. Best wishes.

If this is not behavioral in origin, two medical possibilities come to mind: hip dysplasia or a cardiac problem such as subaortic stenosis. Golden retrievers, for example, have the potential for both. It might help to know what Moose's "mix" is--that is, what breeds are behind him. I would definitely take him to the vet to see if the cause can be determined.

A lot of puppies striggle with the concept of walking beside people at first, especially when a lead is introduced. If you have him on a lead this is likely the issue. What I usually find helps is getting him to follow you round a safe environment first such as your garden or home. You can do this on/off lead. Never ever pull him if he isnt walking as you will make him fear the lead. If yiu have a favourite toy or treats you can coax him to walk alongside you and praise him when he does. I would focus on this for a while befire trying to get him out into the world. When he is walking well in the garden try him on the street. He will likely take a bit if a back step so be prepared to work with him again. If he continues to plant his bum when you go outside he is likely scared of all the new things going on. Try not to force him, keep coaxing him and making it look fun outside and he will eventually realise it is ok. A friendly older dog can be a great help in guiding a young pup so you could borroe a family member or friend's dog to try and show him tbat outside is fine. It can be very frustrating with a pup, but persevere and eventually it will just click with him. Good luck!

I am sorry to hear about your pup! I would look at her rear end and check to be sure she doesn't have a matted area of hair/stool covering her anus and preventing her from pooping, as this can sometimes happen in long haired dogs. In mild cases of constipation, adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin to their food to provide fiber can sometimes relieve constipation. If, however, she is lethargic, not eating, does not stop straining/cannot relax, or is vomiting then she needs veterinary care today. If she does have a fecal mat covering her anal area she will likely need to see the vet to have the area shaved and cleaned. You can read more about constipation at https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951509

If your new addition is otherwise feeling well (eating well, interacting and playing with you) she may be a shy puppy and/or adjusting to her new home. Some puppies are more confident than others and it can take some time for them to figure out their place in the new house. If you got her from a breeder you could certainly contact the breeder to ask about her personality previously with her littermates. The breeder will likely know if she was one of the more timid puppies. As most dogs are food motivated using treats can be really helpful. Or if she has particular toys she loves these can be used as well. Basically it's important to make her home a positive and not scary environment for her right now. For example if you get her to leave the house on her own show her praise and give her treats so that she knows this was a good behavior. It can take some time for some puppies to develop confidence. The other really important thing for puppies is a consistent routine as far as when they are fed, when they go outside, etc. Dogs are very smart and will learn a routine quickly and gain confidence in it. The other option is that she may not be feeling very well and that may be why she's reluctant to do some activities. It would not be normal for a puppy to just want to sleep all the time as they should have more energy then an adult dog. This would be even more concerning if you feel like she is not eating well. If any of these seem to be the issue, or just to ease your mind that what you're seeing at home is normal, then having her checked out by your family veterinarian would be a good idea. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Ozzie. Is he limping at all? He could be experiencing some mild pain making him less willing to walk normally. If this does not seem to be the case, he could be reacting to your sister visiting. Pets can find house guests stressful. If he behavioral changes persist or if he refuses to eat and drink, then he will need to see his veterinarian. In the meantime, try to keep his daily routine as consistent as possible. I hope this information helps!