Unfortunately, other terrible things can happen if your dog is allowed to run loose which might include collisions with traffic, exposure to poisons, danger from encounters with other animals or abuse from other people. The following information will help you keep your dog safely at home.

Why Your Dog Runs Away

The first step to curbing your dog’s roaming ways is to determine why they are running away in the first place. Dogs that lack training or are bored are the most likely to run away and not come back when you call them. Other reasons might include sexually induced roaming whether your dog or another dog in the neighborhood is in season, a neighbor could be providing treats or other rewards, or your dog might be afraid of something which causes him to flee.

Why Your Dog Doesn’t Come Back When You Call

Your dog must learn that coming back to you is the most rewarding behavior. Each time your dog comes to you give them an awesome treat, a lot of love, or play a game with a favorite toy and then let them go again if possible.

Also, no matter the reason why your dog ran away, never punish your dog when you catch up to them or when they come back to you. If your dog enjoyed their time away from home only to come home and be punished, it will make it less likely that they will rush home the next time they get away. If your dog is running away of something he is afraid of then punishing him will only make the fear worse by breaking down the trust in your relationship.

Take Steps to Prevent Your Dog From Running Away

While you are teaching your dog to come when called and to not run away, you will need to make sure that your dog doesn’t get the opportunity to get away from you. Here are a list of things to do to keep your dog from getting away from you.