Effective Tips to Stop Your Dog from Chasing Cars

Why Do Dogs Chase Cars?

We all know that each breed of dog has its own unique historical role. For instance, border collies and corgis are breeds specifically bred to assist shepherds, while large mastiffs were once used for bear baiting and guarding. It's because of these roles that almost all dogs exhibit an instinctive reaction to moving objects at high speeds. These memories, encoded in their DNA, tell the dogs: What are you waiting for?

That's why you'll often see dogs become fascinated with cars, bicycles, and even vacuum cleaners. If moving objects can trigger a dog's instinctive response, then objects that move quickly and also make noise are even more likely to stimulate a dog's nerves, driving them into a frenzy. And that's exactly what cars do.

The Intriguing Logic Behind Dogs Chasing Cars

Imagine you're walking with your dog, and a car speeds by. What do you think? You might think: "That driver is incredibly rude!" But what's going through your dog's mind?

Your dog: "This thing that makes strange noises just ran away because of me!"

See? A dog's thought process is incredibly straightforward. Their actions are a direct reflection of their thoughts. If the car passed by while your dog barked, that would be even more of a victory for them, as they would believe their bark chased the car away.

This is why many outdoor dogs enjoy chasing cars and motorcycles, as they frequently encounter these vehicles. The same logic applies to some stray dogs that are also drawn to chasing cars.

How to Stop Your Dog from Chasing Cars?

1. Play More

Many dogs chase cars because of their boundless energy. Ensuring they have regular playtime is beneficial for both the dog and the owner, and it's something many owners often overlook.

2. Training

It might surprise you, but some dogs misbehave because their owners never trained them to be obedient. The importance of obedience training cannot be overstated; in many countries, it's even a requirement for dog owners to obtain a dog license without proper training.

Don't underestimate the power of simple commands like "sit." They can save you from a lot of trouble.

3. Redirect Attention

You can use various methods to redirect your dog's attention, such as offering treats. This method has already changed your dog's incorrect behavior, ensuring you won't have to worry about them engaging in selfgratifying activities like chasing cars.

4. Leash Training

It's true that owners who don't use leashes when walking their dogs are not as responsible as they should be. However, some owners should consider whether they are giving their dogs too much rope. A longer leash can actually give dogs more confidence in certain situations, such as when chasing cars.