How Do I Train My Dog Not To Run Away

Your Wild at Heart One’s Houdini acts can leave even the most clued-up pet owner worrying about their dog’s secret escape plan. Dogs are like furry magicians, and occasionally they vanish into thin air. Even the most spoiled and obedient ones can transform into escape artists, ensnared by the call of curiosity, the excitement of a wild chase, or merely a fleeting lapse in attention. As responsible guardians of our canine companions, it’s our duty to ensure their safety and well-being. So, since we have also been fooled a couple of times by sneaky Frikkie, we thought we would help you with a guide to understanding, managing, and preventing your canine’s vanishing acts. We’ve got their backs in this wild game of catch me if you can.

6 Things You Can Do When Dogs Run Away:

1. STAY CALM:

Now, when Frikkie decides to take you on a footrace quest, it’s crucial to stay cool. Of course, panic may be the first thing that kicks in, but remember, your dog has an eagle eye for your reactions. SO, put on your coolest shades and camouflage under an aura of peacefulness.

2. DO NOT CHASE!

Whatever you do, when your dog runs off, RESIST the temptation to fall into the trap of chasing after him. Chances are… they’ll start running as fast as lightning.

3. CREATE A DIVERSION AND RUN! – to the opposite/safest direction:

INSTEAD of falling into the trap, consider playing your own version of “Come, Catch ME if you can!” Nothing beats a good game of chase where you’re in the lead. Use a whistle or squeaky toy, wave an exciting toy or irresistible treat in the air and make your best escape. If the way to Frikkie’s heart is via his tummy, treats like bacon, liver, or salmon skin might just be the ace up your sleeve. And if he is an adventurer, hop into your vehicle and call out to him – it’s like offering him a first-class ticket to the grand adventure!
More info from professional dog trainer, and agility champion Susan Garrett: Catch Your Runaway Dog! Stop Chasing And Do This In An Emergency

4. KNEEL OR SIT DOWN:

Another secret weapon to change the game is going incognito. Kneeling, sitting, OR lying down makes yourself appear less intimidating and more inviting. He may just take the bait and dash your way, wagging his tail.

5. ASSISTANCE FROM OTHERS:

If you need backup, call in your trusty sidekicks, your friends, and your neighbours who can join the quest, using their charm and treats to charm your explorer back into your arms.

6. POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT AND PRAISE:

NOW for the grand finale, you must make it worth his while. It is time to praise and reward your little escape artist. Make their return a celebration they’ll forever remember. Offer them their favourite treats and their bestest games with their favourite person on earth.

10 Pawsome Tips You Can Do to Keep Frikkie Under the Radar

1. FENCE IT:

Build a sturdy and high enough fence that even Houdini himself would applaud.

2. TREASURE HUNT:

Dogs love digging – surprise Frikkie with a designated digging zone, especially for him and bury his toys and treats to keep his inner archaeologist fulfilled.

3. WATCH HIM LIKE A HAWK:

Think ahead and eliminate every possible gateway to Frikkie’s freedom.

4. FEED HIS CURIOSITY:

Dogs are born explorers. Keep Frikkie mentally and physically entertained with dog puzzles, interactive toys, and adventures to gratify their nosy side.

5. DOG OBEDIENCE TRAINING:

Teach your Wild at Heart One the fine art of coming when called with dog obedience training.

Lets see how the professionals do it:

6. PLAY HIDE AND SEEK:

Turn your home into a playground for doggy detectives. Engage in a fun game of hide and seek with your best pal, or hide his toys or treats, and send him off on a treasure hunt. This game can be played indoors or outdoors, but just be on the floor patrol to prevent any hazardous slips and slides around the corners on wet and slippery surfaces or tiled floors. And remember, do not hide his favourite treats amongst toxic plants- you’re hunting treats, not trouble! When your partner in crime’s nose is busy searching for his favourites, he won’t have time to plot an escape.

7. BEFRIEND YOUR NEIGHBOURS:

If Frikkie goes AWOL, they will know who to call! Start a WhatsApp group with the hood. Should Frikkie disappear into thin air, they’ll know to spring into action. Also, select one trustworthy voluntary neighbour to keep a top-secret doggy database of all the pets in the hood and their owner’s contact details. When an escape happens, our guardian angels can swoop in with precision and contact the right parents.

8. UNLEASH YOUR INNER SHERLOCK:

Regularly inspect your yard or house for potential escape routes. You might be surprised by a secret passageway or hidden tunnel!

9. INVEST IN A PET GPS TRACKER:

To keep you on Frikkie’s heels and return him home safely.

10. CALMING TREATMENT FOR DOGS:

If your Wild at Heart One loves living on the edge, or their brain is more wired than your tech gadgets, or they are just plain bored out of their furry minds, it might be a good idea to try a top-notch calming treatment for dogs to keep Mr. Houdini at bay.

We’ve got this!

BONUS: 11. HAVE FUN!

Keep your Wild at Heart One on the right side of the fence with daily exercise, epic play sessions and more fun than a Garfield-chasing championship! Drain that bottled-up energy and emotions before they can decide that the grass indeed is greener on the other side!

So, there you have it, the ultimate guide to outsmarting your four-legged escape artist with a dash of humour and a sprinkle of strategy. Enjoy a most adventurous and joyful journey together, and ALWAYS stay one step ahead!

Be sure to try UNTAMED Animal Health’s CALM for Pets and read some excellent reviews about the product here.

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