It’s a terrifying scenario for any dog owner: one moment your dog is by your side, and the next, they’ve bolted off, perhaps chasing a squirrel on a walk or seizing an opportunity when a door is left ajar. This is a pet parent’s worst nightmare, and in that moment of panic, it can be incredibly difficult to know the right course of action. However, with expert advice, you can be prepared to handle the situation effectively and increase the chances of getting your beloved companion back safely.
Don’t Give Chase: The Counterintuitive First Step
Your immediate instinct might be to run after your dog, but experts strongly advise against this. In most cases, humans cannot outrun their canine companions. If your dog is scared, chasing them will only make them run further away. If they perceive it as a game, you’ll inadvertently reinforce the behavior, making the situation worse. As Dr. Ellen Lindell, a veterinary behaviorist, states, “Chasing is never a good idea.”
Instead, Dr. Lindell suggests reversing the chase dynamic. Try to entice your dog to run towards you by mimicking a chase. This can be done by running with a favorite toy or treat, or even by getting into your car if your dog enjoys car rides. Making the pursuit about you can turn a frightening situation into a playful one for your dog. [It’s important to have a strategy when your dog runs off.]
Maintain Calmness and Positivity
It’s crucial to fight against the urge to scream or yell. Your dog is likely experiencing fear or excitement, and your panicked reaction could escalate their distress or make them believe you are angry. “It’s counterintuitive, but you want to stay calm and try not to panic,” advises Melanie Cerone, a certified professional dog trainer. Instead of shouting their name, use a happy, encouraging tone and make playful noises. Turning and moving in the opposite direction can also signal that you want them to follow you. If your dog fears punishment upon return, they will be less likely to come back, so now is the time to be extra encouraging.
Utilize Your Recall Word Effectively
The most effective strategy in such situations is a well-trained emergency recall word. This is a specific word or phrase that signals your dog to return to you immediately, overriding any distractions. Training a reliable recall takes time and effort, but it is invaluable. Cerone emphasizes the importance of rewarding your dog generously when they respond to their recall word. “You have to make it worth their while to do what you want them to do. Use a super high-value food that your dog doesn’t get any other time.” Using a highly motivating reward, like a special treat they rarely receive, can make returning to you more appealing than whatever is capturing their attention.
When choosing a recall word, Cerone recommends something short, distinctive, and not commonly used in everyday conversation. Words like “come” can become diluted with frequent use. A word like “Bacon,” for example, is unique, likely associated with a positive experience, and less prone to being overused. [Teaching your dog to respond to a recall word is a fundamental aspect of dog training.]
Employ a “Down-Stay” Command
While getting your dog to return is ideal, it requires them to stop and change direction. A simpler, yet highly effective, alternative is to teach a “down-stay” command. 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.” This command can be a lifesaver, as it immediately halts your dog’s movement. Encouraging your dog to lie down can be facilitated by getting down to their level yourself and pretending to play with a toy, making yourself and the proposed action seem less threatening and more inviting.
Prevent Future Escapes
Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath. While not all emergencies can be foreseen, several proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of your dog running away. Cerone advises keeping your dog on a leash in unfenced areas unless you have absolute confidence in their recall. Enclosed dog parks are a safer alternative for off-leash play. [When it comes to dog training, consistent practice is key.]
It’s also vital to understand your dog’s temperament and ensure your home’s security. Make sure fences are secure and doors are always shut properly. Unspayed or unneutered dogs have a strong drive to seek out mates, which can override other commands. Lastly, always keep your dog’s ID tags and microchip information current. This ensures that if the worst-case scenario occurs and your dog does get lost, they can be reunited with you as quickly as possible. [Ensuring your dog’s ID is up-to-date is a crucial step in responsible pet ownership.] This proactive approach, combined with effective training and vigilance, is the best way to keep your canine companion safe and sound.
