Every time I open my door my dog bolts out and runs like there's no tomorrow! It takes me forever to catch up and I live on a busy street! She runs so fast and I'm afraid one day she'll end up getting struck by a car or I won't be able to catch up and end up losing her. Any advice?
Alyson & Gregory Fairfax Virginia
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I have a 3 year old Scottish Terrier and read a book about the breed. Terriers tend to bolt off if they think they see something scurring around. They can be very well behaved even for years and then run off after something one day. This book said to never let the terriers out without a leash! I have a long retractable leash for my dog and the only time he is out without this leash is when we play ball as he is obsessed with getting the ball and bringing it back to us.
So along with our daily walks and retrieving the ball he gets plenty of exercise. (09/03/2005)
By LucyB
I have a Bichon Frise who bolts when I open the door. I never open the door unless he is out back, on a leash or gripped securely in my arms. Occasionally someone else opens the door and he bolts. I have to go after him in the car! When I find him he jumps in the car when I call him. You have to wonder what he's thinking, he has all "the comforts of home, lots of love, treats and toys" with me! (09/03/2005)
By Linda
The only thing I could think of is to put his leash on and hold on tight. Keep it by the door. A little bit of work, but it sure beats chasing him or something worst. (09/03/2005)
By JoJo
We too got tired of chasing our 3 dogs around the neighborhood. We bought an electric dog collar and put it on. Once they dug under the fence, we said "no" and zapped then. It was amazing. It only took 2 times for them to understand. They are expensive but my suggestion is for a few families to go together in the cost and each take turns using it. You only need it a little while, then pass it along. We got ours at Gander Mountain (probably any hunting dog training store) in Merrillville, Indiana. Also try the internet. Worked for us! Good Luck! (09/03/2005)
By Wendy23
Have you ever thought of taking your dog to Obedience School? What you learn is invaluable for both you and your dog for years to come. It is also a lot of fun for the both of you. The classes are usually once a week for about 6 to 8 weeks. For me it opened the door to showing my first Dalmatian. Check with your local dog lovers club or vet or pet store for the Fall schedule of classes.(09/03/2005)
By Randianne
I have a German Shepherd which is my first dog as an adult. Training is something I was not thinking of. Needless to say I have researched many things for training dogs. The first thing that comes to mind is set aside 10 minutes a day to train the dog about the door issues. Put the dog on a leash, go to the door and open it. The second they start to bolt out give a quick sharp tug on the leash and say NO. if the dog pauses after the tug give a treat, even if they try to bolt again thats ok then give the sit command and give treat.
Not much of a solution, but my Jack Russell has/had the same bad habit. You are very lucky you can run after him. I just can't. My solution has worked though. Silly as it seems make sure your dog wears a collar with his name and your phone number. I can't tell you how many times people have called to say "I have your dog" - I bless them all.
By Sara.
My grandmother's terrier kept running away right after she got him. She had just lost another dog that did the same and he got hit by a car and died. Its not always the vet bills that will kill you. She couldn't stand the idea of it happening again so she invested in the electric fence. It worked great and only took him a time or two to get it. So the person with the thought of sharing the cost had a really good idea. (09/04/2005)
By christi
Keep a squirt bottle filled with water. Have it ready when you open the door and give a good two are three squirts in the face. Helps with many problems. Have a jumping rat terrier! LOL Good luck and hope this helps! (09/04/2005)
By kathy berrong
We just had our Labradoodle "Bailey" in training. One of the first things we were taught is to keep him on a leash (even indoors) while he's in training. When we approach the door together to go outside you must firmly pull him back and tell him to stay until YOU have stepped out of the door first.
ps -Don't forget to praise him well when he listens! (09/06/2005)
By
My dog won't come back when we call him. He just completely ignores us and does what he wants to do. We have tried biscuits etc but I was talking to a lady in our local park who had a similar problem and she had bought a collar that has a little spray in it. You have a remote control and if the dog is behaving inappropriately you can squirt it with this citronella liquid. She said the improvement in her dog was instantaneous and has given her control of the dog back to her. It is harmless, safe but not cheap I'm afraid. I've ordered one off Ebay and I have high expectations. Hope I'm right. (10/25/2007)
By anne-marie
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