If you're a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend safe and secure in your backyard.
However, some dogs are escape artists and can find ways to get out of even the most secure yards.
Here are some tips and tricks to prevent your dog from escaping and ensure their safety.
Why do Some Dogs Want to Escape from their Backyard?
Some dogs are more renowned for escaping than others, scent hounds such as beagles or bassets for example with often want to follow the smell of something good!
Check for any gaps or holes in your fence.
The first step in preventing your dog from escaping your backyard is to check for any gaps or holes in your fence. Dogs are experts at finding even the smallest openings and squeezing through them. Walk around your fence and look for any areas where your dog could potentially escape. If you find any gaps or holes, patch them up with sturdy materials like chicken wire or wood. It's also a good idea to reinforce the bottom of your fence with rocks or bricks to prevent your dog from digging underneath it.
Install a barrier or deterrent.
If your dog is still finding ways to escape despite your efforts to patch up any gaps or holes in your fence, it may be time to install a barrier or deterrent. This could include adding an electric fence or a coyote roller to the top of your fence. You could also try planting prickly bushes or installing motion-activated sprinklers to deter your dog from trying to escape. It's important to remember that these methods should be used in conjunction with proper training and supervision to ensure your dog's safety and well-being.
Train your dog to stay in the yard.
One of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from escaping your backyard is to train them to stay within the boundaries of your property. This technique is more effective when using a wireless containment system or invisible fence- more on that later!
This can be done through positive reinforcement training, where you reward your dog for staying within the designated area. You can also use visual cues, such as flags or markers, to help your dog understand where the boundaries are.
Consistency and patience are key when it comes to training your dog, so be sure to dedicate time and effort to this process.
Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Dogs that are bored or have excess energy are more likely to try to escape 
from their backyard. Providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help prevent this behavior.
Take your dog for daily walks or runs, play games like fetch or tug-of-war, and provide puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to keep their minds engaged.
A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to try to escape and more likely to be content staying within the boundaries of their backyard.
Learn more in our previous Blog on Enrichment Activities for Dogs at Home here.
Install a Pet Surveillance Camera
When it comes to choosing a camera to watch over your pets, we recommend purchasing one that is designed specifically for pets. Unlike a general purpose surveillance camera, pet cam's feature intelligent systems that will have appropriate resolution to capture the movements & motions of your pets.
We suggest resolution 1080p (1920x1080) HD for capturing your pets. The Catit Pixi Smart Mouse Pet Camera also features infrared night vision, essential for decent nighttime observations!
The added convenience of being able to watch & observe from your mobile phone is a real game changer when it comes to providing additional care to our pets. A pet camera is a great investment, one that will provide you with peace of mind which is priceless when it comes to your pet.
The best pet cameras mean you can leave home without worrying about your cat or dog.
Install a Wireless Pet Containment System
How Does a Wireless Pet Containment system work?
A wireless pet containment system works by using radio signals to create a boundary around your property. The transmitter emits a radio signal that creates a circular boundary, while the receiver attached to your pet's collar detects the signal. If your pet gets too close to the boundary, the receiver emits a warning beep or vibration. If your pet continues to approach the boundary, the receiver delivers a static correction to discourage them from crossing the boundary.
This system is a safe and effective way to keep your pet contained within your property with
out the need for physical fences or leashes.
Training your pet to use a wireless pet containment system is an important step in keeping them safe and secure.
Add a Pet Fence To Your Traditional Fence
Keeping your dog safely contained in your backyard can be a challenge, especially if your furry friend is an escape artist. One solution is to install an in-ground pet fence alongside your traditional fence. This creates an extra barrier that your dog will learn to respect, preventing them from climbing over or digging under the fence. With consistent training and reinforcement, your dog will stay safely within the boundaries of your yard.
© weknowpets 2023
