10 Clever Tricks to Catch Your Dog During a Freedom Run

OH NO!
Your dog is on the loose and gleefully embarking on a freedom run. You’re about to panic and sprint after him, screaming his name like a banshee.
But, wait!
Stop.
Take a deep breath.
Now channel your inner dog-savvy ninja. These clever tricks might save your dog’s life and your blood pressure.

Try these 10 sneaky moves to get your dog back to you:

1. Never chase your dog
   This turns into a game of “Catch me if you can” Spoiler alert: you can’t. Instead, turn and run the other way to see if you can get your dog to chase you.

2. Use high-value treats
   Not the dry biscuits from the bottom of your coat pocket. We’re talking chicken, hot dogs, cheese and the stinkier, the better. Wave them like a beacon of hope.

3. Use a noisy treat jar or open a bag of food
   Most dogs know the magical sound of treats on the scene. If your dog has a treat jar, now’s the time to channel your inner percussionist. Shake it like your dog’s life depends on it (because it might).  Rip into a crinkly snack bag or treat pouch like you’re having the best snack ever. Particualrly effective if your dog is the type to show up any time someone eats chips.

4. Drop to the ground
   This one’s weird, but effective. Lie down or sit suddenly. Many dogs will turn around just to see what the heck you’re doing. Curling into a little ball of mystery might be more inviting than chasing them with panic in your eyes. Some dogs are surprisingly empathetic and will come check on you.

5. Act excited about something
   Get goofy. Jump up and down. Clap. Bark. Do your best impression of a human tornado. Gasp. Point. Kneel down and inspect the grass like you’ve discovered a portal to Narnia, or a dinosaur bone. Curiosity might just lure your dog back in.

6. Use a flirt pole or favorite toy
   If your dog is toy-motivated, whip out a flirt pole or squeaky toy and start playing with it yourself. Sometimes the sight of a toy they adore can cut through the distraction fog like magic.

7. Offer a walk
   Grab the leash and cheerfully ask, “Wanna go for a walk?” If this is a phrase your dog knows and loves, it may be all the motivation they need to come trotting back. Perhaps it won’t occur to your dog that they’ve technically already taken themself for a walk and are doing a fantastic job of it.

8. Bring another dog
   A familiar dog friend or even a calm, friendly stranger’s dog can be a helpful lure. Social butterflies often don’t want to miss out. After all, what’s the fun in a freedom run if there’s no one to show off to? Nothing says “na-na-na-boo-boo” quite like zipping in circles around a leashed dog who can’t join the chaos.

9. Offer a car ride
   Open the car door and call out like it’s time for their favorite drive-thru. “Wanna go for a ride?” works like magic for many escapees. When your dog gets in, take them to Bojangles.

10. Improve your recall training
    This one takes time but it’s worth it. Enroll in a class or work with a professional to build a reliable recall, so you’re not relying on chicken and theatrics forever. (Psst. Get in touch.)

Important Reminder

Never scold your dog for not obeying, especially once they have finally returned to you. Coming when called should always result in a positive experience for your dog or they will hesitate to come next time you call.