Having a furry friend in your household is one of the most rewarding experiences. However, dogs may sometimes escape from their homes out of curiosity or fear, which can be frustrating for owners.

After tracking them down, some pet owners may notice that their dogs refuse to listen to them, which is quite common since dogs are easily distracted by their environment and newfound freedom. As a responsible owner, knowing how to manage the situation is essential to keep yourself and your dog safe.

Stay Calm

It can be frightening to see your dog run loose on the streets and not listen to any of your commands. However, staying calm and composed is crucial for handling the situation most effectively.

Dogs can pick up on our negative emotions, and when we become anxious or agitated, they may become more difficult to manage.

Take a deep breath and try to approach your dog slowly. Do not make any sudden movements or noises that may scare them further.

Calmly try to lure them back home, and if that does not work, try to get them into a confined space before they cause any harm.

Know and Understand Your Dog’s Personality

Just like humans, dogs have unique personalities. Some may be more curious and adventurous, while others may be more timid and fearful.

Knowing your dog’s personality can help you understand their behavior and work appropriately to bring them back home.

If your dog has an adventurous personality, they may wander off further from home. In this case, you may need to go out and search for them. If they have a timid personality, they may be hiding in a nearby area out of fear.

You can try calling out their name in a comforting tone to reassure them and encourage them to come out.

Use Treats as a Way of Attraction

One effective way of bringing your dog back home after they have escaped is to use treats as a way of attraction. Dogs love food, and the smell of their favorite snacks may encourage them to come back to their owners.

Keep a stash of your dog’s favorite treats in your pocket when taking your dog outside. When they escape, you can use these treats to lure them back home.

Call their name in a cheerful voice while holding out the treat to encourage them to come running back to you.

Train Your Dog to Follow Commands

Ensuring your dog follows your commands can help prevent future escapes. Training your dog to come when called is crucial when dealing with an escaped dog.

To train your dog, start by calling their name in a clear and firm tone. Reward them with treats and praise when they come. Gradually increase the distance and the distractions, so your dog learns to come back to you no matter what the situation is.

This could take up to several months, but the training will pay off in the long run.

Don’t Leave Your Dog Unattended

Prevention is better than cure. It’s important to ensure that your dog does not have the opportunity to escape in the first place. Making sure all doors and windows are securely closed and locked is a good start.

If you have a yard, ensure that it is well fenced and that there are no holes or gaps that your dog can use to escape.

Never leave your dog unattended outside, especially if they have a history of escaping. Always keep an eye on them, so you notice any signs of restlessness or anxiety before they decide to make a run for it.

Get Help if Necessary

If you’ve tried all the above techniques and still cannot bring your dog back home safely, it’s time to reach out for help.

You can alert your local animal control authorities or the police if your dog has been missing for over 24 hours. Social media is also an excellent tool for reaching out to the community and asking for help.

Use hashtags to make it easier for others to share your post and spread the word.

Conclusion

Dealing with a dog that refuses to listen after escaping your house is daunting, but it’s vital to remain calm, assess the situation, and use the appropriate methods to bring your furry friend to safety.

Training your dog and ensuring you take preventative measures to avoid future escapes is a proven method to keep your dog safe and happy.