Why does a dog run away during a walk?
When you and your dog go out for a walk and your pet runs off and rushes off into the unknown, you get a chill in your heart. However, you should not get angry, but try to understand why this is happening. Often dogs run away not out of anger, but because of instincts. Someone has a thirst for the chase – he saw a cat, a bird or even just a rustle in the bushes, and no longer controls himself. Others, on the contrary, run away out of fright: thunder, a loud motorcycle, fireworks, an unexpected gust of wind – all this can make the dog run away in panic.
There are dogs that run away simply out of curiosity – the world around them seems to them a boundless adventure. If there is not enough contact or affection between the dog and the owner, he doesn’t see the point of reckoning with the owner much. And there are times when a dog just doesn’t get enough exercise – physically or mentally – and tries to compensate by running away. No less important reason is the lack of elementary education: nobody has explained to the dog that “Come to me” is not just a sound, but an unconditional command.
What not to do: typical mistakes of owners
In desperation after another escape, we often act on emotion. We yell, run after, scold, punish until the dog does not return. But this is exactly the main trap. If you scold your dog after he comes back, he will remember that it is dangerous to come back. Next time he will hesitate because he will be afraid of the punishment.
Another mistake is giving chase. This is a fun game for many dogs, and the faster you chase her with a tantrum, the more fun she has. The initiative is lost. It is also dangerous to use bad carabiners, weak leashes, or not checking the situation for hazards.
Worst of all is to assume that the dog “brought it on himself”. The responsibility is on the human. Because it is up to us how well our Pet understands the world and behaves in it.
How to teach your dog not to run away – a step-by-step solution
Start simple – an enclosed safe area, such as a yard or empty lot. No leash, but full attention on you. Call your dog by name, call him affectionately. As soon as you approach – immediately praise, treats, joy. It’s a game, a contact, a bond.
The command “Come to me” should be repeated gently, with emotion. Not as an order, but as an invitation. At first, every few meters. Then – when something distracts her. Gradually move to a long leash – 10-15 meters. This will give freedom, but will leave control in your hands.
A game of chase is ideal. You don’t chase the dog, he chases you. You run a little bit, you stop, you call. And every time: “How clever you are, how good you are!”, treats, hugs, delight.
And it is also important: do not marry for the result. Even 10 good seconds is already a victory. Don’t rush. Don’t push. Your stability and consistency is the best foundation for obedience.
Remember: the dog returns to the one he loves, not the one he fears.
When you need professional help
If your dog runs away always, does not react to anything, shows panic or aggression – this is already a signal. In such cases, it is better not to guess, but to turn to a professional.
The cynologist will recognize the true cause and give an individual training scheme. A zoopsychologist will help if the dog has fears, anxiety or deep behavioral problems.
This is not a weakness – it is a responsibility. Because the most important thing is not obedience, but safety. And it must be built together.
