Keeping your fur-legged friend contained on his property can be a little tricky at times, especially if he’s known for his Houdini abilities! We dog owners try everything to keep our pups safe and secure at all times, but every so often, they manage to get out and away from us. A dog on the run may think he’s just out for a joy run, but he is putting himself at risk of getting lost, injured, or even worse. If your pup is known to enjoy exploring alone, this blog may help you learn some tips and tricks for keeping him where he is supposed to be.

First, let’s understand why our pups try to get out, to begin with. The main reasons are:

• Boredom: Hanging out in a yard in the same environment with the same dog toys isn’t fun. Dogs of all breeds can suffer from boredom, though it’s more common in high-energy breeds. Cattle dogs are especially prone to this because being on the move and working is in their DNA.

• Looking for something beyond the fence: If a taunting squirrel gets your pup’s attention just beyond the fence, he may be inclined to try and catch him and have a “little talk” with him. This could also include a neighbor’s dog or children that your pup wants to play with.

• Anxiety issues: Anxious pups might escape the yard to flee something that is frightening them. This can include loud noises such as fireworks and thunderstorms. Their instinct creates them to want to run from the perceived threat.

• Being Lonely: If your dog tends to spend a lot of time outside with no interaction and alone, he may want to explore and find companionship elsewhere. Pups are social creatures and do have emotional needs like we do.

Ways To Prevent Your Dog from Escaping a Fenced-in Area

• Increase the height of your fence to make it more difficult for your pup to jump over or climb it.

• Eliminate any objects that they can use to reach the top of the fence. (Chairs, decorations, etc., that your pup can use to climb up.)

• Reconfigure your yard layout.

• Underground fencing to prevent digging their way out. Many dogs tend to dig under a fence to escape.

• Spread gravel at the base of the fence, which will help to temporarily fill in gaps.

• Pour concrete at the base of the fence, which will permanently fill gaps.

• Inspect and repair the weak or damaged areas of the fence that are open, not sturdy, or not fully secure.

• In some instances, replace the fence with a new one that is stronger and more secure.

Although many of these tips will help to prevent your pup from escaping, they are not guaranteed as our pups can be creative and, at times, a bit sneaky. There are other tools that many dog owners use to keep their pups safe. Basic GPS tracking collars are a great way to quickly find your pup should he get out. It is always recommended that your dog is microchipped, which will allow for a much quicker and easier return home should he ever get away. And lastly, a good old fashion collar with an ID tag on it will allow your pup to be brought home if he is found after escaping. Taking the time to make sure your pup is safe and secure now will result in a lot of saved time and grief should he escape.