Introduction
Dogs running away is a widespread problem, causing anxiety and stress for pet owners. Nothing can be more distressing than coming home to find your furry friend gone. While there are many reasons why dogs run away, it’s often easy to prevent. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons behind the behavior of dogs that run away. We’ll also discuss the harmful consequences of running away and how to prevent your dog from running away in the future.
Investigations into Why Dogs Run Away
Loneliness, boredom, fear, and curiosity are the most common reasons why dogs run away. Here is a closer look at each of these factors:
- Loneliness: Dogs thrive on companionship and love. If left alone for too long, they may develop separation anxiety, which can be a significant factor behind running away.
- Boredom: Dogs require physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. When dogs become bored, they often find ways to amuse themselves, which may result in running away.
- Fear: When afraid, dogs may run away from unfamiliar people or sounds, resulting in them getting lost or hurt. Fearful and anxious dogs may also attempt to escape from upsetting situations.
- Curiosity: Many dogs are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings. If given the chance, they may wander and run away, risking getting lost or hit by a car.
As seen above, running away is often a side effect of underlying issues. A better understanding of these causes can help prevent dogs from running away.
Training Tips to Stop Dogs From Running Away
Here are some practical tips and techniques to stop your dog from running away:
- Training: Training your dog is essential in preventing them from running away. Ensure that your dog is obedient and will come when called. Basic puppy training is a good starting point for this process.
- Secure Your Yard: Dogs that run away frequently tend to find ways out. Ensure that your yard is secure by fixing any weak spots in the fence. Installing vertical fencing or Electric barriers can be practical methods to ensure that your pet is safely contained.
- Microchip and ID Tags: Electronic identification chips and ID tags can ensure that your dog can be returned safely if they get lost. Have a sturdy collar with identification that includes your contact information on it, so that whoever finds your dog can quickly contact you.
- Play with Your Dog: Engage your dog in physical activities by playing games like fetch and running around with them to help burn out excess energy, hence ever reducing the urge to seek adventure elsewhere.
The Emotional Effects of a Lost Dog
When a dog runs away, the emotional toll it has on the owner is indescribable, but dogs also experience anxiety, loneliness, and stress. Therefore it becomes imperative to get our furry friends back home as fast as possible. Here are some helpful resources for finding lost dogs:
- Local Shelters: Check your local animal shelters to see if your dog has been picked up; shelters usually have a Lost and Found section. You can also leave a photo of your pet, which they can put up to assist in the search.
- Social Media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram are often used by dog owners to locate their dogs quickly. You can post a photo of your dog, including details of the last location you saw them
- Microchipping: Microchipping is the process of implanting a chip underneath the dog’s skin to store important identification information. Animal professionals like vets or shelters can use a scanning machine that reads the information on the chip to contact the owner.
- Collar Tags: A simple identification tag with critical information such as the dog’s name, your contact number, and vet info can be lifesaving when it comes to finding a lost dog.
It is necessary to identify your dog with any available information to assist them in reuniting with their owners speedily.
The Impact of Breed on Running Away
Certain dog breeds are prone to running away more than others because of their particular personality traits. It is important to recognize specific breed traits and to work with them to prevent running away. Here are some breed-specific training tips:
- Hound Breeds: Hound breeds are bred to trail and hunt prey, so they have a high prey drive that makes running away a recurring issue. Regular training with a focus on obedience can help prevent this.
- Herding Breeds: Herding breeds off leash, tend to herd and chase anything that moves. Promote more physical activities that fulfill their herding instincts, or use specialized training methods to redirect them.
- Terrier Breeds: Terriers are known for sniffing out small animals like rabbits, insects, and so on. Hence, they are highly energetic and have a high prey drive which ensures the risk of running away is high. It’s essential to provide an adequate outlet for their excess energy. Physical and mental activities like tracking, playing games and running around are good options.
Leaving a Dog Alone: Understanding the Problems
Leaving our dogs alone or crated for extended periods can predispose them to running away. Here are some tips to keep your pet safe and secure:
- Hire a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: Hire a dog walker or a pet sitter to visit your pet when you’re not around. This way, your dog won’t be alone for an extended period and can get the exercise and attention they need.
- Interactive Toys: Consider providing interactive toys and puzzles that require your dog to work for treats. This way, they have some physical and mental stimulation while you’re away, reducing the risk of running away.
- Provide Adequate Exercise: Dogs require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. Provide enough physical and mental stimulation to make them tired and relaxed. They are less likely to develop boredom or anxiety and hence, more unlikely to run away.
Understanding a Dog’s Natural Instincts
It is essential to understand and work with your dog’s natural instincts to have a closer and stronger bond, and it helps to prevent dog running away. Many breeds are known for their high prey drive or natural hunting instinct. Here are some tips to work with these instincts:
- Training: Successful training methods depend on a better understanding of what drives your dog. You can use obedience training to control the prey drive, for instance. Basic commands like ‘come,’ ‘sit,’ and ‘stay’ can help keep your dog calmer and less overwhelmed.
- Socialization: Socializing your dog helps them develop better social skills and reduces the frequency of their prey drive. Socializing your dog from puppyhood will help prevent the fear factor and running away.
How to Handle a Runaway Dog
If your dog does run away, it’s important to act quickly and safely to ensure their safe return. Here are some things to do in case your dog runs away:
- Remain Calm: It can be distressing when your dog runs away, but it’s essential to stay calm and think logically. Panicking can make it difficult to think rationally.
- Search Your Neighborhood: Physically search your neighborhood and surrounding areas while calling out your dog’s name.
- Contact Local Shelters: Contact local shelters to inquire about your dog. If they have found your dog, you may find them in their Lost and Found section.
- Post Your Dog’s Information: Make posters with your dog’s photo and information and place them around your neighborhood and on social media platforms.
Conclusion
Rather than risk losing your dog forever, preventing them from running away is the best approach. Ensure that your dog is comfortable and content, secure, and mentally and physically stimulated. Treat your dog as an integral part of the family and as a partner in everything and share your quality time with them. Remember that it is your responsibility to keep your pet safe and happy.