Does your dog tend to bolt out of the yard or door at any given opportunity? If so, your pet’s wanderlust could place him or her at risk for injury or becoming lost. Enrolling your canine companion in a training or obedience course with a trainer may help solve the issue. Meanwhile, follow a few simple dos and don’ts to keep your dog’s urge to stray at bay.
1. Do Have Your Male Dog Neutered
Male dogs that tend to roam or run away from their home are often looking to satisfy their mating urge. Having your dog neutered may halt these urges and make it less likely for your pet to stray. In addition, to helping your dog behave better, there are health benefits to having this procedure performed. For instance, neutering may reduce the risk of your dog developing testicular cancer or prostate issues.
Although neutering your dog is recommended at an early age, most healthy dogs can be neutered even if they are past the recommended age. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this topic.
2. Don’t Neglect Your Dog’s Social and Emotional Needs
Because dogs are naturally social animals, they crave companionship and interaction from their humans or other household pets. If a pet becomes isolated, bored, or lonely, he or she may seek outside activity away from home.
Even with a busy lifestyle, dog owners must find time to be with their pets. Make time for Fido by playing with your dog outside. Engage your pet in stimulating activities so he or she will not become bored. If your dog’s emotional and social needs are satisfied, running away should be less of a possibility.
Choose interactive toys that will keep your dog engaged and occupied. You don’t need to spend a fortune or have a large collection. Simply rotate your pet’s toys periodically to avoid boredom.
3. Do Keep Your Property Escape-Proof
If your dog has demonstrated talent as an escape artist, revamp your home and property. You don’t necessarily need to make big changes, but think of ways to make your place more secure for your pet. Install a fence or gate that cannot be jumped, and make sure there is little chance your dog can dig beneath it to escape.
4. Don’t Forget the Basic Sit-Stay Command
The sit-stay command should be one of the first training lessons for your pet to master. A training course will generally cover this, and you should follow it up at home. Once your pet learns this command, be sure to use it every time you open the door. Teaching your dog to sit and stay whenever the door gets open will prevent him or her from bolting out and running away.
As a side note, be sure all household members initiate this command as they leave the house or open the door. When visitors come over, inform them of your dog training technique, so the door won’t be opened without first commanding your dog to stay.
5. Do Use Positive Reinforcement
If your dog happens to run off, you’ll need to train him or her to return at your command. Once your dog obeys your command, reward him or her with a treat. Praise your pet in a loving voice and offer the affection your dog craves. Your pet will associate this as a reward for obeying your commands to stay put without running off.
Remember, you’re not alone in this battle to keep your dog safe from wandering. Obedience and training classes can make a difference. Contact Elite Dogs Training And Boarding to make an appointment today.
1. Do Have Your Male Dog Neutered
Male dogs that tend to roam or run away from their home are often looking to satisfy their mating urge. Having your dog neutered may halt these urges and make it less likely for your pet to stray. In addition, to helping your dog behave better, there are health benefits to having this procedure performed. For instance, neutering may reduce the risk of your dog developing testicular cancer or prostate issues.
Although neutering your dog is recommended at an early age, most healthy dogs can be neutered even if they are past the recommended age. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this topic.
2. Don’t Neglect Your Dog’s Social and Emotional Needs
Because dogs are naturally social animals, they crave companionship and interaction from their humans or other household pets. If a pet becomes isolated, bored, or lonely, he or she may seek outside activity away from home.
Even with a busy lifestyle, dog owners must find time to be with their pets. Make time for Fido by playing with your dog outside. Engage your pet in stimulating activities so he or she will not become bored. If your dog’s emotional and social needs are satisfied, running away should be less of a possibility.
Choose interactive toys that will keep your dog engaged and occupied. You don’t need to spend a fortune or have a large collection. Simply rotate your pet’s toys periodically to avoid boredom.
3. Do Keep Your Property Escape-Proof
If your dog has demonstrated talent as an escape artist, revamp your home and property. You don’t necessarily need to make big changes, but think of ways to make your place more secure for your pet. Install a fence or gate that cannot be jumped, and make sure there is little chance your dog can dig beneath it to escape.
4. Don’t Forget the Basic Sit-Stay Command
The sit-stay command should be one of the first training lessons for your pet to master. A training course will generally cover this, and you should follow it up at home. Once your pet learns this command, be sure to use it every time you open the door. Teaching your dog to sit and stay whenever the door gets open will prevent him or her from bolting out and running away.
As a side note, be sure all household members initiate this command as they leave the house or open the door. When visitors come over, inform them of your dog training technique, so the door won’t be opened without first commanding your dog to stay.
5. Do Use Positive Reinforcement
If your dog happens to run off, you’ll need to train him or her to return at your command. Once your dog obeys your command, reward him or her with a treat. Praise your pet in a loving voice and offer the affection your dog craves. Your pet will associate this as a reward for obeying your commands to stay put without running off.
Remember, you’re not alone in this battle to keep your dog safe from wandering. Obedience and training classes can make a difference. Contact Elite Dogs Training And Boarding to make an appointment today.