It’s a pet parent’s worst nightmare: one moment your dog is by your side, and the next, they’ve bolted off after a squirrel or a passing delivery truck. This heart-stopping scenario can leave you feeling helpless, but knowing the right steps can significantly increase your chances of a safe reunion. This guide, drawing on expert advice, will equip you with the knowledge to handle this stressful situation and prevent future escapes.
Don’t Give Chase: The Counterintuitive First Step
Your immediate instinct might be to chase after your dog, but experts advise against this. Most people cannot outrun their dogs, and chasing can escalate fear or turn the situation into an unwanted game. Dr. Ellen Lindell, a veterinary behaviorist, emphasizes that “Chasing is never a good idea.” Instead, she recommends reversing the chase dynamic. Try running away from your dog, perhaps with a favorite toy or treat, or even enticing them to follow you to your car if they enjoy rides. This approach can make the situation a fun challenge for your dog, encouraging them to follow you.
Maintain a Calm and Positive Demeanor
While your panic may be rising, it’s crucial to remain calm. Screaming or yelling can heighten your dog’s fear or make them believe you are angry, making them less likely to return. Melanie Cerone, a certified professional dog trainer, advises, “It’s counterintuitive, but you want to stay calm and try not to panic.” Use a happy tone of voice and encouraging sounds when calling your dog, and consider moving in a direction away from them to pique their interest. Reassure them with positive reinforcement, like praising them as a “good boy,” to signal that returning to you is a positive outcome.
Master the Recall Word: Your Emergency Cue
An emergency recall word, trained meticulously, is invaluable. This is a specific cue that signals your dog to return to you immediately, overriding distractions. While this training requires dedication, the payoff is immense. Cerone highlights the importance of significant rewards: “When dogs respond to their recall word, you reward them big time.” Use extremely high-value treats, like bacon, that your dog rarely receives otherwise. This creates a strong positive association, making returning to you more appealing than whatever they are pursuing. When choosing a recall word, opt for something short, unique, and not commonly used in everyday conversation. Words like “come” can lose their urgency, whereas a distinct word like “bacon” might be more effective due to its novelty and association with a high-value reward.
The Power of “Down”: Stopping the Escape
While a recall is ideal, sometimes a simpler command is more effective. Teaching your dog a quick “down” or “lie down” command can be a game-changer. Dr. Lindell notes, “One of the best skills to teach is a fast lie down. It’s easier for a dog to drop than to turn around and run back to a person.” For added effectiveness, you can also get down to your dog’s level by sitting on the ground and engaging them with a toy to encourage them to approach you.
Prevention is Key: Securing Your Dog’s Safety
The most effective strategy is to prevent run-offs before they happen. Cerone strongly recommends keeping dogs on a leash in unfenced areas unless they have a completely reliable recall. Enclosed dog parks are a safer alternative for off-leash play. It is also vital to understand your dog’s individual tendencies and ensure fences are secure and doors are always shut tightly. For intact dogs, the drive to find a mate can be powerful, making prevention even more critical. Always ensure your dog’s ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date. In the unfortunate event they do get lost, this ensures they can be returned to you as quickly as possible. If you’re struggling with your dog’s tendency to wander, seeking professional help for advanced training techniques, such as how to train dogs with separation anxiety, can provide valuable solutions.
