HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG FROM RUNNING AWAY
This post is inspired by all the missing dog posts on Facebook and Nextdoor! I have once also had this happen to me, and I wouldn't wish that feeling on anyone. Here are some simple steps to follow to prevent your dog from ever wanting to run away in the first place.
THRESHOLDS
This is extremely important for you and your dogs, and I rarely see it discussed. In order to build a healthy relationship with your dog, you must own every doorway and threshold, i.e. inside and outside the front door and in and out of the kennel, bedroom, and the back door. If you own the thresholds, your dog(s) will not rush the door or try to run away because you have taught them that you own it. Before leaving the room or the house, the dog must sit, and you must always leave first. Once outside the room or home, make the dog sit before proceeding. Again, you are the leader. Before you allow the dog into the yard, make the dog sit, wait 20 seconds, and then release the dog. When the dog is ready to come inside, make it sit, wait 20 seconds, and let it in. Being consistent with these boundaries will allow you to eventually have the front door wide open and not worry about your dog running out of it. RECALL
This is a perfect time to put your positive reinforcement skills to work! Start this process inside home first. With your dog in a sitting position, walk away 2 ft, say "come", and reward the dog when the dog comes to you. Continue this step until you can call the dog to you from another room. Then move to the backyard, using the same process, but use a long leash. Doing this allows you to coax the dog to you if the dog does not come when you call to avoid poisoning the cue and lets it know it is not a request, it is not optional, and their compliance will be rewarded with praise and reward. Next, move to the front yard with the long leash. Use the same process until you feel confident to try off leash. Make coming to you so rewarding that running away is less advantageous than coming when called.
PROVIDE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL STIMULATION
Obedience training is not solely for having a well-behaved dog, buT also serves as a way to stimulate learning in your dog’s brain. This is also true with puzzles, fetch, bones, and toys. The goal is to have your dog mentally occupied so they don't seek out stimulation from escaping. Also, don't forget the walk! It is not just exercise, it is bonding. The walk symbolizes a connection and relationship to your dog. The dog will begin to see you as the person that takes them to see the world, and it will only want to experience it by your side. I'm here for your training questions!
