Dog chasing cars
HI, We live on a large farm and have a working kelpie dog and a pet labrador dog. They are both starting to chase cars as they leave or arrive, if off their chains at that time. We have tried calling them back and the work dog sometimes comes but the Lab will not. This is becoming a problem with the motorbike as well when rounding cattle and sheep. I am concerned the dogs will end up being hit by a vechile as they dart around at the front. Any suggestions? Thanks Sandra
Posted: 13/10/2007
ANSWER: Chasing Cars
Some dogs have a higher developed chase instinct and that is what is at play here. The dogs see the cars / bikes etc as things to chase and they need to be desensitized or it will only get worse - especially if one dog fires the other one up. I would recommend working very hard at the recall of both (and initially work with one dog at the time) without distractions, then add distractions, but use their favourite dog toy or treat as the lure and the attention seeker. It will take time, but some dogs are ball mad, some are attracted to the garden hose, others chase vehicles - it can be 'untrained' with the right positive approach.
Posted: 13/10/2007