It’s not uncommon for empty nesters to welcome a new furry friend into the family, and dogs are loyal, loving companions. Despite their devotion to the family, some dogs are born escape artists who seemingly enjoy the thrill of running away. Regardless of why it happens, a runaway is a top concern for many pet owners, so read on for tips on how to prevent a dog from running away.
Reasons Dogs Run Away
If your dog runs away once, then it likely wasn’t intentional. On the other hand, dogs who run away frequently may do so on purpose. No, it’s not to scare or worry you, but instead often due to:
- Separation anxiety: Your dog may run away in search of you if you’re out.
- Natural instincts: This pertains to both hunting and breeding.
- Moving homes: If you recently moved, your dog may not understand.
These aren’t the only reasons your furry friend may run away from time to time. Some dogs go on independent adventures because they’re bored, as most breeds need at least 30 minutes of exercise. On the other hand, some pups make a spur-of-the-moment dash when they get spooked.
Tips for Preventing an Escape
Once you’ve identified why your pooch ran away—or continues to do so—it’s time to create a plan of action in preventing this. It would help if you made it harder for your pooch to plan escapes, which means higher fencing in the yard. This may also mean swapping your dog’s collar out for a harness, as it’s one of the best tips for dealing with a dog that escapes the collar. In a collar, your pooch can easily back out of it and run off.
As you investigate the best ways to prevent another escape, you should also consider increasing playtime with your pup or taking them to doggy daycare. You should never leave your dog unsupervised outside for long periods since they can easily get into trouble.
Dealing With a Runaway
You could have all the tips on how to prevent a dog from running away, and your canine may still find a way to escape if they’re determined. In this instance, the most important thing you can do is remain calm. By panicking, it becomes harder to think of a rescue plan for your beloved pooch. Many recommend you instead check your area and talk to neighbors as you look for your pet.
Once you’ve found your dog, don’t scold them; they won’t understand what they did wrong, especially once you find them.
Pro Tip
Make sure your dog is microchipped and always wears its tags. This also means having your dog wear both their harness and collar on walks to prevent an escape plus keep them safe. By keeping your pooch safe, you’ll ensure a lifetime of happy memories together!
