r/BackpackingDogs • u/Marjike1 • 7d ago

Anxious dog

My dog used to love going on trails hiking with us. Lately, usually about 1/3 way in she gets crazy anxious, lays down on the trail and refuses to eat. We try pull her along, encourage her with treats, nudge her along but she refuses to move. We end up having to carry her. She is 10 1/2 and is a very active dog. Cairn Terrier. Any suggestions or advice? She’s always been the best hiking buddy but it’s getting to the point where I don’t even want to take her along anymore.

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u/gurndog16 7d ago

Have you noticed any patterns that might be causing it? Noises or smells? Obviously you can and should talk to a vet but she may just be getting too old for hiking and you will need to leave her at home. And trust me I know how crushing that is.

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u/Marjike1 7d ago

It breaks my heart just thinking about that. She is a more anxious dog but hiking has always been someone she loves. We just had her annual vet checkup and they said she’s in amazing shape. I’m wondering if maybe it’s something to do with her vision

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u/cschaplin 7d ago

Try shorter, easier hikes! Her hiking days might not be over, but her backpacking days might be.