Top Tips To Avoid Losing Your Dog

Even with the most well behaved and well trained dogs, the worst can still happen and your dog can escape and get lost. Minimize the risk by following our top tips to avoid losing your dog.

1. Make sure they are microchipped and their chip information is up to date. Micro-chipping makes it easier to find your lost dog. Remember to update the microchip contact info if you move or change phone number in case your dog is found.

2. Make sure they always have their collar with ID tags on. Collars are a good extra piece of identification in addition to their microchip. Make sure identity tags are up to date too. Include your cell number and ideally an address and registration number if applicable. Even though the collar will no longer work as an identifier if it comes off, do make sure your dog has a break away collar so your dog doesn’t get stuck anywhere or even choked.

3. If your dog is out when you have guests over, keep a constant eye on them. Even the most sociable dogs can get spooked by new people, resulting in them escaping and you losing your dog. Always be aware of where your dog is when guest are over. If they look stressed or over stimulated, move them to a quiet and enclosed room. Keep an eye on what your guests are doing too; A non pet owner may not see any problem with opening a door or window but it only takes a small opening for your dog to get outside.

4. Practice the stay command before having guests or going to an outdoor event. Ensuring your dog has practiced and mastered basic commands like stay and come is extremely important for their safety. If you dog knows these commands, it will make it easierr for you to keep an eye on them and get them to come back to you if need be.

5. Keep them on their leash. There is so much for your dog to take in while they are outdoors with you, including enticing smells, other dogs, other humans, and other animals. Keeping your pooch on a leash while travelling or exploring outdoors reduces the risk of them running off.

6. If in the backyard, make sure the entire perimeter is enclosed. It is important to double check that your gate is always closed when your dog is in your backyard. It is also important to regularly check to make sure there are no holes or possible escape routes under your gate or fence.

7. If you’re having guests or know there will be fireworks or other stressers, keep your dog in a safe space in the house. Dogs can become spooked by loud noises and unfamiliar smells. Make sure they feel safe and keep them in their crate or in a safe room in the house to give them their own space and a way to feel calm. You can set them up with food, water, a bed, and their favourite toys to keep them busy and distracted.

Is there anything else you do to keep your dog safe and minimize the risk of losing your dog? Let us know in the comments!