How to Avoid Losing Your Dog While on a Walk?

Many dog owners fear losing their dog during a walk. A dog can run away due to fear, hunting instinct, or simply a lack of recall training. To prevent such situations, it is essential to take precautions and adopt the right habits.

1. Secure the walk with proper equipment

• Always use a leash in risky areas: Near roads, in open spaces, or if recall is not perfectly mastered, a leash remains the best option.
• Choose a secure harness: Some dogs manage to slip out of their collar or harness, especially when panicked. An \"H\" harness or an anti-escape model with chest and back attachments is safer.
• Ensure your dog wears an ID tag and GPS tracker: A collar with an ID tag displaying your contact information and a GPS tracker such as an AirTag or GPS collar can greatly facilitate finding them in case of escape.

2. Train a reliable recall

• Start recall training from an early age: Good recall should be taught with rewards (treats, play, affection) and reinforced regularly.
• Do not scold them upon return: If your dog takes time to come back, never punish them. They may associate their return with a negative experience and hesitate next time.
• Use sound cues: If distracted or beginning to run off, a loud, unusual noise (such as jingling keys or a whistle) can catch their attention and encourage them to return.
• Never chase after them: This could make them think you are playing, motivating them to keep running. Instead, move in the opposite direction to spark their curiosity and make them return.

3. Avoid situations that may lead to escape

• Do not unleash your dog in a new environment immediately: They may panic and run away if they are unfamiliar with the area.
• Avoid forcing them into stressful situations: A frightened dog (storms, fireworks, loud noises) may instinctively flee. Gradually desensitize them to these sounds and provide a safe space.
• Teach them to return when scared: Some dogs run when frightened. Training them to come to you for reassurance instead of fleeing can be lifesaving.

4. What to do if your dog runs away?

• Stay calm: Do not angrily shout their name; it could scare them more. Instead, use a soft and encouraging voice.
• Make yourself more appealing: Crouch, pretend to play, or use a treat to entice them back.
• Avoid stressing your dog: A stressed dog is less likely to listen to your calls. Maintain a relaxed posture and encourage them positively.
• Hide or walk away: If your dog doesn’t return, try disappearing from their sight. This may prompt them to come back out of concern for losing you.

5. Prevent escapes in the long term

• Training is key: A well-trained and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to run away. Teach recall and reinforce this behavior throughout their life.
• Understand why they stray: Boredom, fear, reproductive instinct... Identifying the cause helps address it (neutering, more playtime, strengthening the bond with the owner).
• Secure your yard: If your dog tends to escape even at home, consider reinforcing fences and preventing easy escape opportunities.

6. Identification and tracking

• Ensure your dog is microchipped: Microchipping is mandatory in many places and makes it easier to find a lost dog. Make sure your contact details are up to date.
• Use a GPS collar if necessary: For dogs prone to escaping, a GPS collar allows real-time tracking and quick localization.
• Get them used to their harness and collar: Some dogs panic and struggle, increasing the risk of escaping. Proper habituation to wearing gear reduces this risk.