Different dog breeds were bred for various purposes. However, every dog is an individual. While they have similar temperaments to other dogs, they each have their personality. For example, not all dogs chase cars, but why do dogs run after cars and bikes? Let’s talk about why and how to prevent it from happening.
Why Do Dogs Run After Cars And Bikes?
The short answer is that this act is instinct. Dogs love fast-moving things. Depending on your dog’s breed, they might have working or hunting instincts in them, depending on the group their breed belongs to.
It also might be because dogs love to run and chase things. For example, dogs will surely give chase if you throw a tennis ball. They think chasing items is a game, and it’s a great outlet for their energy.
However, chasing cars on the road is normal for them, but dogs don’t realize how dangerous it is. So while your dog is having a good time, you might be watching from the sidewalk, stressing out, and trying to call them back home.
There have been too many cases where dogs have gotten hit by cars because they lunge at them moving on the street or give chase. As a result, the dogs are seriously injured or, unfortunately, they get killed.
So, what can you do to stop your dog from chasing cars?
What Can You Do To Stop Your Dog From Chasing Cars?
The best way to stop your dog from chasing cars is to nip the habit as soon as possible. This includes properly training your dog early, preventing your pup from chasing cars, and playing alternative games.
Prevention
No matter where you live, it’s always best to have a fenced-in area where your dog can roam and wander on its own. Of course, you should always keep an eye on your furry friend, but with a fence, you know they won’t be able to leave the backyard.
Get a tall fence so your dog can’t jump over it. Make sure the wall covers the whole perimeter of either your whole property or just the backyard.
You can get a chain-link fence where your dog can still see what happens outside the yard. Of course, they’ll probably still give chase at passing cars, but at least they’ll be confined to the yard.
Alternatively, you can get a wooden fence where your dog can’t see what goes on outside the yard. However, they might still bark and give chase when they hear the loud noise of a car, truck, siren, or motorcycle.
Training Tips
If your dog begins to chase after a car, do not chase them back. It might seem like the right thing to do, but you won’t be able to catch up with your dog. Also, they’ll think you’re playing a game and run farther and faster.
Instead, call them by their name in a firm, non-playful tone. If they know their commands well enough, they’ll come back.
To prevent your dog from chasing cars, you can teach them commands such as “leave it.” You can practice this with toys in the backyard.
For instance, put your dog on a leash in the backyard. Throw one of their favorite toys and say, “leave it.” Every time they sit still, reward them with a treat or positive praise. Make them wait for the release word, such as “okay,” before allowing them to chase the toy.
Eventually, you can practice this command without them being on the leash. So, when you’re on a walk and a car goes by, you can simply give them the command, and they should leave the car alone.
Games To Play With Your Dog
One of the reasons dogs chase after cars might be because they have a lot of pent-up energy. If they’re home alone for most of the day and you finally let them outside after a long day, they might chase and run after anything that moves. That includes cars.
So, make sure that you keep them plenty busy during the day and give them as much physical activity as their breed needs.
For example, you can take them on a few walks during the day. If you’re not home, you can hire a professional dog walker or bring them to doggy daycare.
You can also make sure to play plenty of games with them. It will ensure your dog gets in their exercise, but it will also teach them which objects they can chase.
For instance, you can play tug of war with them, fetch, or tag. Instead of your dog chasing cars, you can encourage them to chase you. Or, you can chase them.
Not only are these safe activities, but your dog will stay fit, and it’s a fun bonding time for the two of you.
It’s Natural Instinct But Dangerous
Chasing cars and bikes is an instinct for dogs. However, they don’t realize how dangerous it can be. You can nip this behavior right away with proper training and physical activities to keep them busy.
