We've had Riley (formerly Bob) now for just under a week. He's been absolutely fantastic, and walking started off being a complete dream. However, he's just started getting half way round our morning and after-work walks and coming to a standstill. Some of the walk is along a main road, but I don't think the traffic is a problem as sometimes we'll glide along the main road and come to a standstill along the quieter country lane. I'm inclined to think it's stubbornness rather than fear, because if you walk him back in the direction you came from, he's very happy to trot back   and when we come back home along the main road, he hasn't ever slowed or stopped at this point. We try and 'gee' him along with excited noises etc, but he just completely stops and looks around nonchalantly

While turning back in the direction we came from seems a lot easier, I haven't yet given in and done that as I want him to understand that we're going the way I say but we did try turning him round in a few circles to confuse his sense of direction and then continue on in the right direction, but this has a short-term effect (as well as leaving us dizzy  )

We're not slow walkers, so we always keep a good pace but this doesn't seem to have any effect.

The frustrating end is that now it has appeared to impact on his toilet habits, as he's less inclined to 'go' while he's in this state

Does anyone have any ideas that are tried and tested?

Thanks a million - we're so blessed to have such a well-behaved boy so it might be the case that I'm blowing this way out of proportion as he's no bother in so many other areas  

Hi there, you are doing all the right things - yes, the walk in a circle does leave you dizzy but usually does the trick.  Try giving him treats at certain parts of his walks so he knows when he gets so far - he gets a treat.  Try making his walk interesting if you can and go different ways to keep him on his toes.  Equally, if I was a grey in this cold time of year - I know I would find a skip in my step if I was heading home!  You will probably find he is totally different when it comes to the warmer weather.  Let me know how you get on.