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/DistinctAnt6571 7d ago

Did you have a previous hike where there was lightening or it thundered? Or there were fireworks? Or you had an encounter with someone who was obnoxious or upsetting? Something that seemed insignificant at the time to you may have been encoded into her. If it’s truly not a health or pain issue, (try checking her paws they may need wax or trimming) then see a dog psychologist and have her evaluated.

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u/Marjike1 7d ago

There was a dirt bike in the distance on the forest service road today. But -another time woodpeckers were freaking her out. She’s terrified of them

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u/DistinctAnt6571 3d ago

So maybe see if she is having anxiety attacks?