Do dogs come back when they run away?
According to estimates, about 7% of missing dogs will never be reunited with their family1. But two things seem to make a happy ending much more likely. When dogs who run away do return home, it’s usually because:
A GPS dog tracker is the number one way to ensure you can find your dog if they do run away.
Boredom is another reason why dogs run away. Having too much energy and nothing to do at home can drive your pup crazy. So they will hit the road out of boredom. Your dog’s exploratory instincts can be calmed by the three Es; exercise, enrichment, and entertainment. Although your yard is a great tool for exercising, enriching, and entertaining your pooch, you must be there to supervise them and one of the things you have to make sure of is that the gates are locked so they don’t end up running away and getting lost.
Some dogs do come back when they run away but there are also other dogs that never make it home. Do dogs come back when they run away? Most importantly, what can you do to prevent your dog from running away in the first place?
Your dog is a part of your family and losing your dog or having them run away is just like losing your own child. Owners feel just as nervous as a parent who lost their child when their dog runs away. What happened? What could they have done to prevent their pups from running away? Are they safe? Do they have shelter? Will their beloved pooched ever come back? These are just some of the questions which are on the mind of every owner whose dog has run away.
Loud noises, big crowds and bright lights can scare your dogs and can cause them to run away. This does not mean that you should no longer celebrate the holiday season but you should consider your dog’s safety by keeping them indoors.
One of the most frequent reasons why dogs run away is that they have easy escape routes. Not all dogs like to runaway but genetically, all dogs are born to roam and discover their surroundings. As a species, dogs are naturally curious creatures. They are active and they want to explore their surroundings so if you have a fence that is too low, a gate that is broken or a window that is open, you can be sure that your dog will start exploring.
Loneliness or Boredom
Just like people, dogs are social. They need attention and something interesting to do. If she’s lonely or bored because you’re not engaging with her enough, you may find that she starts running away.
Tip: Pay attention to your dog! It’s not always easy to find time if you have a busy schedule, but it can be done if you make it a priority. Set aside time for daily walks, and make sure to provide her with plenty of affection — after fulfilling her needs with exercise and discipline.
What TO do and what NOT to do if your dog runs away and doesn’t listen
Maybe your dog bolts as soon as you open the front door — even if he was nowhere to be seen before you opened it. Or she won’t stop digging under the fence to escape your backyard.
However they get out, dogs that run away are no laughing matter. They could get hit by a car, attacked by a dangerous animal, or placed in a shelter where their people never find them.
Why do dogs engage in this dangerous behavior? Below, you’ll find several reasons as well as tips on what you can do to stop it.