
Prey drive is the instinctive behavior of dogs to chase and hunt prey. Dogs are natural predators. When dogs became domesticated pets, they have retained their predator instincts. Some dog breeds have a dominant prey drive than others. Dog owners sometimes find prey drive challenging to handle.
On the other hand, trainers have seen the value of prey drive in dog training. Instead of giving treats, trainers reward pets with games that bring out their prey drive, such as playing catch or fetch. In dog training, toys such as the stick, frisbee, or ball act as the prey. Dogs with intense prey drive need appropriate control using a leash to prevent accidents. For instance, some dogs tend to chase moving vehicles or humans, which can be dangerous to the pet and others. Pet owners should be aware of their dogs’ prey drive habits and distract their pets from potential prey in the environment to tame the behavior.
If you have concerns about your pet’s behavior, call your vet clinic Pembroke Pines, FL.