How to Stop Your Dog from Chasing Cyclists and Runners: A Simple Method

20.09.2023 06:50

Many dogs perceive fast moving objects as targets to "hunt".

Therefore, cyclists and runners often have a difficult time: the animal may start chasing them.

In this case, the dog may ignore the owner’s commands “Heel!” and “Come!”

You can’t punish your dog for this behavior: your pet’s hunting instinct is triggered, and it’s not your four-legged friend’s fault.

But it is worth trying to wean the dog off the bad habit. If you use one method, the dog will stop reacting to running people and bicycles.

dog
Photo: © Belnovosti

The essence of the method

It is necessary to ensure that the dog gradually gets used to moving objects and stops reacting to them.

To do this, you need to use the help of a friend. Go to the forest or to the park and ask your partner to move a significant distance away and hide from the pet's field of vision.

Then the hidden person needs to suddenly come out from somewhere.

If the dog reacts to the person, shout "Come to me!" If the dog has followed the command, give it something tasty. If not, the exercise should be repeated.

Gradually reduce the distance between the dog and the partner who runs out quickly. Also, ask your friend to run faster and longer each time. Then you can use a bicycle.

Over time, the dog will stop responding to runners and cyclists. You need to make the dog obey the owner without rewards.

Author: Kurchev Anton Deputy Editor-in-Chief