How to Catch a Dog

A dog on the loose can be a difficult thing to deal with, but if you are a dog owner, it is bound to happen. Even if you aren't, you are likely to come across a canine on the run at some point in your life. They dig a hole under the fence, they slip out of their collars, and then they run. The main thing to realize is this: the initial human instincts that kick in when you are trying to catch a dog are usually wrong. These steps will walk you through the best techniques to catch that runaway canine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Avoid the very first gut instinct you have when you are trying to catch a dog on the run: do not run after him! It is natural to want to go towards the animal and yell out to him. But most of the time that will make him run farther and faster.
2. Understand that you are likely dealing with a dog that is afraid. They may have freed themselves from their yard, or maybe someone dumped them on the side of the road. Either way, when they are on the loose, they are in unfamiliar territory. So even a beloved owner can spook his own dog if he walks or runs aggressively towards the dog.
3. Use the "pack leader" method first. Dogs are pack animals, and they are accustomed to following a strong leader. So, instead of facing her, turn your back to the dog. Top animal trainers have told many stories about catching canines this way. Turn your back and start going the other direction, with your face looking back at the dog. Call to her in a very upbeat, happy voice, like you are going to do something really fun! No harsh tones, or you will scare her. The idea is to get her to follow, like she would follow a canine pack leader. Crouch down and call to her if you need to, if she is not beginning to follow you as you walk away. This will put you more on her level, and keep you from looking so intimidating. Keep the happy voice, and see if she follows your lead, whether you are walking or crouching. Always have a leash ready to slip over her neck if she gets close to you.
4. Move to the next step, if the pack leader method did not work for you. Get a few family members or friends to widely surround the area where the dog is running free. Do not crowd him, or back him into a corner. This will scare the dog, and he could run farther, or worse, get aggressive towards you. Arm everyone with a nice food treat. Hot dogs are good, because they have a strong smell, and the meat and fat content are very appealing to dogs. If the dog comes to anyone in the group, he should immediately be rewarded with the hot dog, not scolded. Would you come to someone repeatedly, if you were punished when you responded to the command?
5. Have a leash ready to work as a "lasso." In other words, use the handle on one end to make a slip noose. This way when the dog comes near you, or any other member of your group, you are ready to slip the noose over her head and tighten it. The dog running loose may not have a collar on. And even if she does, she could escape again during the time it takes you to clip a leash on. Again, when she is caught, reward her. Do not make this an unpleasant experience, or you will have a difficult time getting her to come to you if she gets loose in the future.

Tips & Warnings

• As mentioned, never back a dog into a corner when he is running loose. He is likely to be very afraid, and may retaliate by getting aggressive.
• Always keep a collar with ID and phone number on your dog. A microchip is even better. We all like to believe we are perfect owners. But dogs do get loose. If someone else catches your dog or sees her, you want them to be able to identify her and let you know.
• Do not try to capture or contain an injured dog, especially if he is a stray. Dogs will be aggressive when they are hurt. In this situation, call your local authorities for help.