Mature mutt doesn’t want to walk far

[Readaboutyourself]

I rehomed two rescue dogs 6 years ago and sadly 2 weeks ago one died. The other seems happy enough when at home (he’s always slept 90% of time) but since the younger one died he’s just not bothered about going for walks. Seems giddy when the lead comes out but 5-10 mins in he’s had enough and either refuses to move so he’s carried home or today… he just turned around and started walking home before we even got into the park.

A couple of months ago he would have been fine for a 40+ minute walk but I just couldn’t imagine it now.

Could it be related to the death of my other dog or are old dogs just like this? Or should I take him to the vet? After the recent death I’m reluctant to face any more bad news 😞

I'm sorry for your loss, we've lost 2 of our 4 dogs in the last year and it has affected the remaining dogs. They have grieved and lost their way for weeks, it can have a huge impact on their life and routines.
A vet check wouldn't go amiss but just give them time.
What age is your dog?

Sounds like he wants to be at home in case his pal returns. He's missing him. Try spoiling him, doing out of routine things with him, different toys etc. Do you still have a blanket or soft toy that the one one used a lot, his smell might still be on it and that might give your dog some comfort?

Thank you and the same to you. It’s awful isn’t!

I think he’s around 14 now & going greyer and lighter by the day. He’s totally normal inside the house but a different dog now outside. I really miss them as a duo 🙁

Oh bless him. that’s a good point. He’s never been into toys but they would take turns in the fancier bed so the younger ones smell should be around.

He’s getting lovely treats and so much more attention now,. He’s lapping it up!

I just wonder am I doing him any favours forcing walks on him?

It does sounds like he’s missing his pal. Along with you they would have made their own little pack. Maybe the one you lost was the more dominant character and this one is a bit lost as the hierarchy has changed.
A vet check up won’t hurt tho to put your mind at rest. I’m sorry for your loss, I too have an older dog so know the inevitable will happen.

Bless him, sounds like he's grieving, but a vet check wouldn't go amiss as it could be pain related.

Have you got any friends with compatible dogs who might be willing to try going out for a walk together to see how your dog reacts? One thing you might consider is adopting or fostering an older friend for him - a friendly plodder. There often aren't many takers for them in rescue centres so it sounds like it could be an arrangement that benefits all concerned.

Thanks all. I’ll book him in for a check up.

We have talked about another rescue but the remaining dog is quite an aloof soul. The two of them arrived together and my late younger dog was the only dog I’ve ever seen him interact with by choice. I’m also not sure I can go though the grief many more times.

I think when he departs to the kennel in the sky we might be pet free for a bit but perhaps we’ll end up fostering.