7 Tips To Stop Your Dog’s Chase Behaviors

1. Why Do Dogs Chase?

Before stopping the behavior, it is essential to understand why dogs chase in the first place.

Common Reasons Behind Chasing:

1. Prey Drive

Dogs are natural hunters.
Their instinct to chase is triggered by movement. This is especially true for breeds like Border Collies and Greyhounds.

2. Excitement

Some dogs get overstimulated by fast-moving things, like bikes or running kids. This can lead to impulsive chasing.

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3. Lack of Focus

Without proper training, dogs may struggle to ignore distractions in their environment.

Fun Fact: Some herding breeds, like Australian Shepherds, chase.

Their instincts tell them to “control” moving objects.

Quick Tip: Identify your dog’s triggers.

It’s the first step to managing chase behaviors.

2. Teach Strong Recall (“Come”)

A reliable recall is one of the most important commands to stop your dog mid-chase.

“Come” isn’t just convenient—it’s a life-saving skill.

How to Teach Recall:

Step 1: Start Indoors

Use an excited tone to call your dog’s name, followed by “come.”
Reward them immediately with treats and praise when they come to you.

Step 2: Gradually Add Distance

Practice from farther away, like across the room or yard.

Step 3: Introduce Distractions

Begin training in areas with mild distractions, such as your backyard.
Use high-value treats to compete with tempting triggers.

Pro Tip: Always make “come” rewarding.

Never scold your dog after they obey, even if they were misbehaving before.

Fun Fact: Dogs trained with praise in recall training respond 70% faster than those trained with punishment.

3. Practice “Leave It” Command

“Leave it” is a powerful command that stops your dog from fixating on objects or animals.

It’s essential for managing impulsive behaviors like chasing.

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How to Teach “Leave It”

Step 1: Start Small

Place a treat in your closed hand.
When your dog stops trying to get it, say “leave it” and reward them with a different treat.

Step 2: Progress to Floor Objects

Place a treat on the floor while keeping your dog leashed.
Say “leave it” and reward them for ignoring the treat.

Step 3: Use Real-World Triggers

Gradually apply “leave it” to more exciting distractions, like squirrels or toys.

Fun Fact: Once mastered, “leave it” helps prevent your dog from eating harmful items during walks or at home.

4. Use Redirection to Replace the Chase

Dogs need an outlet for their energy, and redirection is a great way to channel their instincts positively.

How to Redirect Behavior:

1. Use Toys or Games

Carry a squeaky toy, a ball, or a tug rope during walks.
When your dog spots a trigger, redirect their focus to the toy.

2. Teach Alternate Commands

Commands like “watch me” or “sit” can interrupt the urge to chase.

3. Play Chase Alternatives

Let your dog chase a flirt pole (a long stick with a toy attached) to satisfy their instinct safely.

Quick Insight: Redirecting your dog gives them a healthy outlet.

It also teaches them to ignore triggers.

5. Train with Controlled Triggers

Controlled exposure to triggers is key to desensitizing your dog to common distractions.

This technique helps your dog stay calm and focused in real-world situations.

Steps for Controlled Trigger Training:

Step 1: Identify Triggers

Determine what makes your dog want to chase—squirrels, cars, bikes, or kids.

Step 2: Create a Safe Environment

Use a leash or long line to keep your dog secure while training near triggers.

Step 3: Gradually Reduce Distance

Start far from the trigger and reward calm behavior.
Slowly decrease the distance as your dog remains focused on you.

Pro Tip: Use a clicker to mark the moment your dog ignores the trigger, then reward them immediately.

Fun Fact: Trained dogs are less likely to react in high-stimulation environments.

6. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is less likely to chase.

Physical exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for reducing unwanted behaviors.

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How to Burn Off Energy:

1. Daily Walks or Runs

Regular exercise keeps your dog’s energy levels in check.

2. Playtime

Games like fetch or tug-of-war provide a healthy outlet for their instincts.

3. Puzzle Toys and Agility Courses

Mental challenges tire your dog out just as much as physical activities.

Quick Insight: Dogs that get daily exercise are 60% less likely to misbehave, like chasing.

7. Use Training Tools for Extra Support

Training tools can provide more support while teaching your dog to stop chasing.

They’re especially helpful in the early stages of training.

Helpful Tools:

1. Long Lines

Gives your dog freedom to roam while keeping them safe and under control.

2. Harnesses

Anti-pull harnesses help you maintain control during walks.

3. Whistles

Training whistles grab your dog’s attention from a distance, even during distractions.

Pro Tip: Gradually phase out tools as your dog learns to respond reliably without them.

Advanced Training Techniques for Chasing

For dogs with strong chasing instincts, basic commands may not be enough.

These advanced techniques can help manage even the most determined chasers.

1. Teach the “Focus” Command

How to Teach It:

Hold a treat near your face and say “focus” or “look.”
Reward your dog for making eye contact.
Practice in increasingly distracting environments.

Why It Works:

“Focus” redirects your dog’s attention to you, helping them ignore triggers.

2. Distance Control

Steps:

Use a long line or leash to practice commands like “stay” or “come” at a distance.
Gradually increase the space between you and your dog while maintaining control.

Pro Tip: Distance training helps you manage your dog even when they’re far away.

3. Incorporate Agility Training

Why It Helps:

Agility exercises satisfy your dog’s need for movement while building impulse control.

Examples:

Teach your dog to jump through hoops or weave between poles.
Use agility as a reward after a successful training session.

Fun Fact: High-energy dogs excel in agility. It channels their instincts.

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Why Controlling Chase Behaviors Matters

Stopping chase behaviors isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety.

Key Benefits:

1. Prevents Accidents

Stops your dog from running into traffic or chasing dangerous animals.

2. Strengthens Trust

Training improves communication, making your dog more responsive to you.

3. Builds Confidence

Dogs with strong impulse control are calmer and more balanced in new situations.

Fun Fact: Well-trained dogs are happier and less stressed. They know what is expected of them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, some mistakes can set back your dog’s training.

What to Avoid:

1. Chasing After Your Dog

Running after them makes it feel like a game, reinforcing the behavior.

2. Yelling

Loud corrections can overstimulate your dog, worsening the problem.

3. Skipping Rewards

Always reward calm behavior to reinforce positive habits.

Quick Tip: Stay patient and consistent—training takes time, but the results are worth it!

Troubleshooting Scenarios for Stubborn Dogs

Some dogs may struggle more with chasing due to a high prey drive, fear, or overstimulation.

Here’s how to handle specific challenges:

1. Overreaction to Squirrels or Birds

Problem: Your dog fixates on small animals and ignores your commands. Solution:

Start training far from the trigger (e.g., at the edge of a park).
Gradually decrease distance as your dog remains calm.
Reward heavily for even brief focus on you instead of the animal.

2. Chasing Cars or Bikes

Problem: Your dog lunges or pulls on the leash when vehicles pass. Solution:

Teach a “heel” command to keep them walking calmly by your side.
Use desensitization by standing at a distance from traffic and rewarding calm behavior.

Pro Tip: Avoid sudden exposure to high-traffic areas—it can overwhelm your dog.

3. Ignoring Commands During High Energy

Problem: Your dog becomes too excited to respond to “come” or “leave it.” Solution:

Start training after a long walk or play session to reduce energy levels.
Use calming tools like a gentle leader to regain control.

Quick Insight: Troubleshooting takes patience, but consistency and positive reinforcement always pay off.

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How to Make Training Fun

Training doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

By incorporating play, you can make sessions enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Ideas for Fun Training Sessions:

1. Play Fetch with Commands

Practice “come” and “leave it” during games of fetch.

2. Use Treat-Filled Toys

Reward your dog for following commands with puzzle toys or treat dispensers.

3. Celebrate Small Wins

Cheer your dog on and give extra cuddles for progress.

Pro Tip: Dogs love upbeat energy—keep training light-hearted to maintain their enthusiasm.

Conclusion

Stopping your dog’s chase behaviors takes patience, practice, and the right techniques.

Teach commands like “come” and “leave it.”

Use redirection and fun training tools.

This will keep your dog safe and focused.

The key is consistency and positivity—every small win gets you closer to success.

Now it’s your turn: What triggers your dog’s chasing instincts?

Share your tips and training experiences in the comments below!

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