Dogs chasing cars

[AngelaDawn18]

How do you stop your dog from chasing after your car?

Ok, I live in the country and I have a long drive way. Do to the fact that I am in the country, my dog roams free. The only problem is that when anyone leaves the house, she thinks its time to play "Chase the big boys down the drive." I am so afraid that she is going to do this some day, and she is not going to make it back alive.

 

[Dagna]

And sad to say you're probably right. While you may be careful when your dog is out, I'm sure other people drive down that road that aren't. My suggestion, bring the dog inside, and if that's not an option (I would be surprised if it wasn't) then get/make a large pen for him to be in when you are not home.

 

[lucypevensie]

Here's what I'd try. Put her on a long leash, about 20 feet and walk with her. About the time a car leaves your drive she'll take off running. But she'll reach the end of the rope soon. When she does give the leash a bit of a "pop" (not hard, don't hurt her) and say NO!!! to get her full attention. Praise her when she comes back to you. Do it a lot of times. You'll probably have to do it every time someone comes over, several times, until she gets it.

At least I imagine that this might have some effect on her.

 

[Dawn Marie]

Yep. You're right to be worried. One of my Aunt's old dogs, was killed that way. She chased a car down the street and was hit by the car behind her. She had a litter of puppies at the time, too...

 

[draper]

JUst gotta put it inside or build a pen, like someone else suggested.

 

[AngelaDawn18]

I would love to put her inside but unfortunately my landlords do not want dogs in the house, so I can not bring her in. I think I will see if I can get a pen built for her for when we are not home.

 

[KristiXP]

Here's what I'd try. Put her on a long leash, about 20 feet and walk with her. About the time a car leaves your drive she'll take off running. But she'll reach the end of the rope soon. When she does give the leash a bit of a "pop" (not hard, don't hurt her) and say NO!!! to get her full attention. Praise her when she comes back to you. Do it a lot of times. You'll probably have to do it every time someone comes over, several times, until she gets it.

At least I imagine that this might have some effect on her.

Praise, praise, praise! And treats!

 

[Key Of David]

My french poodle was a fiesty little pooch...he chased cars for a long time..until one day a girl in a truck came along.....he got caught underneath...tumbled to the middle....and BANG the back of his skull struck the rear end (heavy iron part in the back middle that hands down like a ball) of the truck. It rang like a bell. We knew it was his last chase for sure. Miraculously he actually survived this and for a few years was fine. But he eventually got a huge brain tumor where the rear end struck and we had to put him to sleep.

The reason we never kept him inside is my mom was NOT a dog person at the time....and fences looked really ugly....so had I had it to do all over again...it would definately be an invinsible doggy fence.

 

[ShetlandRose]

Dear AngelDawn18: I don't know the breed of your dog, but I have had many dogs in many years (mostly Shelties). Right now I have a Sheltie and a Border Collie. Both are rescued dogs and both have very strong herding-chasing instincts. The Border Collie was quite a runner and my husband has had to take a strong, firm hand in training. We too live in the country and have a 500 ft. driveway to the road. My Sheltie has run the distance at flat-open speed chasing a visitor's car onto the road. In fear I nearly lost my heart and my sanity. Even though I have worked with her and she is obedient, she is never allowed to run free. She is on a long cable or with me by my side and I am very aware of her at all times. Our walks are done with a harness and leash (lest she slip her collar). I beg you, please don't let your dog run free--ever! People have given you good options here and there are more ideas in training books and on websites. It only takes one car, one rabbit, or one squirrel to end in heart-wrenching tragedy.

Wishing you many wonderful years ahead with your pet.

ShetlandRose

 

[Mr.Cheese]

I hit a dog last year that chased my car. It didn't do anything to him. But I had to get a new mirror for my car.

 

[Wolflily]

Hi all!

I agree with those who recommend restraining your dog one way or another. Letting them run loose only causes plenty of problems = not just in the possibility of getting hit. They can get into toxic stuff, garbage, dead animals, get into fights with other animals (who might be wild, rabid, or domestic and unvaccinated, or just plain bigger and meaner), and all manner of trouble. I used to be a veterinary tech for years and it amazed me the stuff dogs would get into when allowed to run loose.
Please try to build a pen at the very least!
Best wishes...
Wolflily

 

[AngelaDawn18]

I would like to thank all of you for your suggestions. I will have to look into getting a horse lead for her. They are very long and very dependable. When I was living at home I had my dog on a lead and she was unable to get off of it. I will do all I possibly can in order to keep her from chasing cats and getting herslef killed. Thank you very much.

 

[72_Chev_Truck]

Just hit the dog with your car and they weill steer clear forever, happened to my dog and she wont get near a car when its running

 

[Emery7]

I do agree that keeping your dog on a lead, leash, or in a pen at all times would be a great idea, unless you are around to watch her! I'm glad that you're taking the necessary precations to ensure her safety!!! Let us know what you end up doing! GOD Bless

~countriecurls~