refusing to go in car

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helbe

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My parents have a golden retreiver who has suddenly decided he will not get into the car.He is running away tail between legs and shaking when they try.They are not strong enough to pick him up and put him in,they are getting quite concerned as they like to take him out with them when they go out.
They cant think of anything frightening him when he was in there before,he is 7 years old and they got him 2 years ago from a family who couldnt keep him.He`s generally a quiet and docile dog.
Any ideas ???
 
My first thought would be that he has hurt himself whilst jumping in the car. Has he shown any sign of lameness/stiffness, although 7 isn't old it could be the onset of arthritis. I would get him checked out by a vet (perhaps between them they could lift him in the car), if he is given the all clear then go back to basics and try feeding him in the car to show him it is not a scary place.
 
Take him to the vet, sounds like a pain response. My dog acted similarly when he hurt his back.

Jumping in and out of the car can have a big impact on the joints of large dogs.
 
I agree with CaveCanem, it definitely sounds like a pain/fear response. Could be anything from having trapped a paw, to sore joints.

Presume they have tried putting the dog in the front footwell for example, hope you find out whats triggered it.
 
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