What do dogs target? When you cycle pass by a dog to see its instinct of aggression. It suddenly outbursts to bark. Witness a small squirrel running along branches. You will see your dog’s difficulty in seeing the innocent creature. Their chasing behavior is indeed hostile reactions. Yet foolish people try to defend the aggressive dog by kicking it off which may unknowingly lead to an incredible mess. Chasing behavior in dogs is indeed annoying sometimes for every dog owner.
If your doggy is of that type, keep it leashed when your known enters your premises. And also, you have to make sure that your yard is fenced sturdily, to obstruct your dog’s consistent outgoing whenever he sees someone strange.
Why do dogs chase after making their chasing behavior annoying?
Dogs in the wild survive on chasing. Unless they chase or hunt, their survival becomes challenging. Some breeds are naturally prey-driven. Dogs like greyhounds and terriers are indeed notorious chasers. Therefore, you have to keep them leashed or fenced to avoid harm that is caused to others. Especially you have to make sure that your yard is secured because your pup is not as cuddly as you think.
Instinctual Origins
Every dog breed has its evolution. Not only dogs but also humans; Their evolution may comprise practices of their ancestors. Especially wild dogs have inherited chasing behavior from their wild ancestors. You feed your doggie enough. He does not need to hunt for survival. But chasing is integrated into their instinct. Consequently, it remains a part of his behavior. Hence, their predatory behavior drives them to chase after cars, bicycles, and other animals. Instinct is therefore a predominant cause for having a chasing behavior within dogs.
Breed-Specific Tendencies
It is not only instincts that make canines chasers, but also, they also tend to chase as a consequence of their genetic makeup. There are some breeds that herd such as Border Collies and Australian Shepards. As they long for the herd, they have a strong instinct to chase and herd livestock. Furthermore, there are some breeds bred for hunting such as Greyhounds and Whippets. So, they do tend to chase after moving objects. You have to understand your dog’s breed specifications so that you will be able to manage their chasing instincts.
Play and Exercise
Dogs love playing, especially your pups. Some dogs embrace chasing as a form of play and exercise. Throw away a ball to see your doggie’s instinct to chase after it and find it out; He sees chasing as a part of play routine. Unlike, chasing after animals and objects, it seems to be harmless and is a great way to develop their energy levels. Despite its chasing habit, assimilating it into such activity keeps your dog happy and healthy.
Territorial Behavior
Dog’s chasing habit indeed disturbs you. Yet there are times when you see their chasing behavior is important. Your dog may chase to protect your territory. Yet, they chase people and cars passing by their homes even though they are not true intruders. The fact is that they consider them too as a threat to the territory. To help them distinguish between true intruders and the innocent, you have to train your doggy properly and socialize them by making them encounter real-world events.
Prey Drive
Some dogs are involved with the instinct to chase and capture prey. Your dog may not have the same level of instinct as the other dogs. The instinct to prey drive varies. Dogs with a high prey drive are more likely to chase smaller animals like squirrels, rabbits, or even cats. You have to realize your dog’s level of prey drive. Having understood its level of instinct to prey, you may be able to handle your dog effectively without causing harm to others.
How To Treat Your Dog’s Excessive Obsession with Chasing
You have to train your dog not to chase unnecessarily. But it takes a lot of time and effort. You may use the following tactics to control your dog’s chasing behavior.
- You may give them plenty of mental and physical exercise to reduce their need to discover their outlet.
- You may use alternative ways of releasing them such as play fetch or toss a Frisbee. By engaging in such fun activities, you will be able to harness your dog’s intense desire to chase.
- Teach them to adhere to commands like “stay”, “come”, and “leave it” helping to have impulse control. Their ability to respond to many commands improves their impulse control.
- Release your dog during walks and ensure a secure yard can also prevent unwanted chasing.
- You may create a no-fail cue word for your dog. It signals that their very favorite treat is on the way. You may use this word when they are supposed to be given a high-value reward. If you break the promise, he does not trust you anymore and goes out of holding power. So, you have to reward him on time.
Prevent your dog’s chasing
You might have witnessed accidents and injuries because of the notoriousness of doggies. While driving you might have encountered their hinderances. To avoid such circumstances, you have to train your dog to be obedient and respectful. It therefore helps their impulse control and looks for your guidance. Train them by unleashing to walk around and run, but you have to take his control over. If not for sure he misbehaves.
Teach them commands that they have to follow. Additionally, try to understand what motivates your dog to chase. Some dogs including yours may tend to chase in vain, due to boredom and lack of exercise. You can prevent your dog’s chasing behavior, by letting them engage in plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation.
However, if your dog’s chasing behavior is particularly challenging, seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can be beneficial. These professionals can provide tailored strategies and support to address your dog’s specific needs.
Engaging with local dog communities can provide additional support and advice. Many areas have dog parks, clubs, and groups where owners can share experiences and tips on managing chasing behavior. These communities can be invaluable resources for new and experienced dog owners equally.
Chasing is a natural behavior in dogs, deeply rooted in their ancestry and instincts. While it can be a fun and healthy form of play and exercise, understanding the underlying reasons for chasing and managing the behavior appropriately is essential. Through consistent training, proper socialization, and providing alternative outlets for their energy, you can ensure a fulfilling and safe life for your dog.
By being aware of your dog’s tendencies and taking the necessary precautions, you can help keep them safe while allowing them to express their natural behaviors in a controlled and enjoyable manner
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