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How to Stop you Dog from Chasing Cars, Cycles, People & Other Pets
Everyone has seen dogs chasing cars on TV or even in our neighborhood and laughed at how funny the scene was. But, if you stop to think, you'll realize how dangerous that action of your dog could be. A sudden turn, stop or other traffic could cause your pet potentially dangerous injuries when chasing cars. Some dogs also other objects and people like other pets, bikes and other people. Dogs that chase may just be playing and not be intending to cause injuries.
There are a couple of reasons why dogs chase other objects. Firstly, chasing is ingrained in the dog's genetic history; it's like an instinct they are all born with. Wild dogs were predators and it's ingrained in them. Mostly, chasing is just a fun event and a part of its play kit. And if your dog is be nature a herder, like an Australian Shepard, then perhaps he is not quite chasing. He may be trying to corral those moving objects, whatever they might be. It is important to be aware that you should not let your dog off the leash until you can curb his chasing instincts. Both the dog and the subject its chasing could get hurt.
Before plunging your dog into a potential chasing situation, you will want to train him in a situation that you can control yourself, like your own fenced in yard. Your dog should be able to relax and concentrate in this setting so he has the chance to execute the appropriate behavior time and time again. Place your dog on a leash and stand with him. Show him a ball or toy but do not let him have it. Next, throw it away from you and give him the "off" command. When he starts to go after it, give a solid tug on the leash and say "off" again.
You must not allow him to get to the toy you have thrown. Otherwise he will associate the "off" command with chasing and trying to get the toy. The scenario should be practiced in brief sessions several times a day until your dog understands and consistently performs properly. Be sure to heap lots of praise on him/her and give him/her a special treat each time they get it right.
Once your pooch grasps this new "off" obedience training game, practice
this in other controlled places as well like the inside of your
home or a friend's yard. By changing the venue, you are getting
him accustomed to following the command no matter what the situation.
Be prepared to backtrack a bit at first with the new places. However,
eventually, he will perform consistently no matter what. At this
time, release the leash and allow it to drag behind your dog but
within easy access should you have to grab it or step on it to stop
him. Practice the "off" command again in different settings. When
he has grasped the concept of "off" whether you have a hold on the
leash or not, it is time to test his abilities in public.
The best place to try out his new "off" command is to enlist the help of a friend to masquerade as a runner. Have your friend run back and forth while you hold your dog's leash. Every time your dog tries to go for your friend, give him the "off" command. When he performs consistently and correctly while on the leash, then you can try and release the leash to see what happens.
Chances are you will have to repeat this process with a variety of things like cars and other animals. Don't wait until your dog is running full steam ahead to use the "off" command. It is important to stop the action before it even starts. That is why you must be vigilant every time you take your dog out. And if your dog just loves the thrill of the chase and won't consistently respond to the command, then you will probably have to keep him leashed. But every time your dog responds to your command in an appropriate way and behaves obediently, it's recommended to pat him/her on its back and to show your love. Alternatively, when training your pet, you could also reward each obedient action with its favorite snack.
You can find other extremely useful and killer information at dog behavior training tips.
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