Teach your dog how to stop chasing small animals

Dogs are predators by nature — their brains and bodies are built to hunt, chase, stalk, and capture. That instinct isn’t “bad”; it’s part of who they are. The goal is not to eradicate that nature but to provide safe, healthy outlets for it and to teach dogs to coexist calmly and predictably around prey.

1) Fulfill their innate needs
Provide adequate physical & mental exercise.
Include species-appropriate activities that mimic the chase cycle.
2) Give them a reliable outlet to express themselves
Regular, structured outlets reduce frustration.
Rotate activities so the dog experiences successful “captures” and closure.
Use safe, engaging games that let the dog use prey-drive behaviors without harming prey.
3) Teach strong impulse control
Train reliable recalls, “leave it,” “wait,” and impulse-control games.
Reinforce calm behavior with high-value rewards so the dog learns self-control is rewarding.
4) Establish clear communication
Use consistent cues.
Reward desired responses immediately and correct the bad behaviors in the moment.
Avoid mixed messages which confuse the dog and undermine trust.
5) Supervised, staged introductions to prey animals
Only attempt introductions after you have established the above.
Let the dog observe the prey animal calmly on leash or behind a barrier. Reward calm attention and relaxed body language.
Use secure restraints and barriers at all times until you have control. Never leave dog and prey unsupervised.

When a dog’s natural drives are acknowledged and channeled through exercise and enrichment; when impulse control and clear communication are firmly in place; and when introductions are gradual, controlled, and respectful —coexistence becomes realistic. This approach keeps both the dog and small animals safe while honoring the dog’s nature in a responsible way. #wildchild #dogtrainingnearme