Keep your dog at home.
Even the most well-behaved dog may occasionally wander away or spot a cat across the street begging to be chased. However, keeping your dog on his own property is not only necessary for his safety, it's also the law in many communities. Some dogs seem more prone to running away than others do, and once they develop the habit, it's a tough one to break. A few techniques may help you get a handle on Rover's escape artist tactics.
Instructions
1. Check with your local Animal Control for the regulations in your community concerning dogs. If a leash law is in effect, you may have to put your dog in a fence or a kennel, even if he stays in his own yard. If you live in a rural area, your dog may be free to roam but you'll still want to curb his desire to do so.
2. Begin training your dog as soon as possible by using the "Stay" and "Come" commands to teach him to control his desire to bolt off after any small distraction and to obey you immediately when you call him.
3. Ask your dog to sit inside at the threshold of the door, while you hold a long leash to control him if he runs. Keeping the leash in your hand, issue the command "Stay" and step through the door and quickly turn to face your dog who is still sitting inside. After 15 seconds, tell him to "Come," encouraging him gently with the leash if he balks. Praise him and give him a treat. Repeat the training technique four or five times per day, always offering praise and a treat for success.
4. Move your training sessions outdoors when your dog masters the front-door version. Ask him to sit on the front step and repeat the technique as you take a few steps into the yard and turn to face him. Your dog will quickly learn to remain in one place when you tell him to "Stay." Keep the sessions short and fun. Avoid scolding your dog.
5. Introduce distractions when your dog learns to obey the "Stay" command. Now, your dog knows what you expect from him, but he may forget if a child runs by or he hears a loud noise. Ask a friend or family member to walk by as your dog is sitting in place. If the dog begins to stand up, issue the command "Stay." Increase the level of distraction as your dog masters the ability to obey. Have a friend pop a balloon or run across the yard with another dog.
6. Install an underground fence if your community allows one. This is a buried wire with a receiver that detects when the dog nears the perimeter of the property. A special collar will emit an electric impulse that increases in intensity as he gets closer (see Resources).
7. Keep your puppy on a leash. At approximately 12 weeks of age, some puppies find the courage to start exploring a wider version of their world. Take frequent walks with your puppy on a leash, and practice having him come to you when you call him. Keep a pocketful of treats for his successes.
8. Run the other direction. If your dog takes off when you're outside with him and he's in a playful mood, he may be trying to initiate a chasing game. Instead of running after him, run in the opposite direction, causing him to run after you if he wants to play.
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