If You Have Dogs, This Might Concern You

Following Rabbits

Observing your dog joyfully pursue a squirrel, rabbit, or deer is rather endearing. Although it's easy to write this off as a harmless dog activity, the truth is much more dire. Your dog may sustain serious injuries, like torn ACLs, as a result of those abrupt stops and zigzags while pursuing. Furthermore, these interactions can develop into more than just a harmless game of tag; they could put your dog in danger of contracting diseases spread by ticks, or they could even end with a strong kick to the skull from an elusive rabbit.

Action must be taken immediately and consistently to break this dangerous behavior. Having expensive goodies on hand will help you distract your dog from a possible prey item as soon as they lay eyes on it. Learn to say "leave it," and make sure you can recall everything perfectly before venturing into an off-leash experience. To control these instinctive yet dangerous behaviors, you may even need to erect specific barriers, like coyote fencing. Recall that your dog's prey instinct is ingrained in his DNA; therefore, you must be vigilant throughout his entire life. You can prevent terrible incidents and keep your adventurous dog out of danger by establishing clear limits and offering safe options for them to release their energy.