While people often like to think of their dogs as children on four legs, the fact remains that they possess animal instincts that can make them unpredictable in certain situations. To most people in the dog world, the term “prey drive” refers to a dog’s eagerness or desire to chase and capture prey. Although all dogs have a prey drive, some breeds are hardwired to chase anything that moves.
Prey drive is one of the most common, yet unpredictable natural behaviors that dog owners have to deal with. Almost every dog has a natural tendency toward some predatory behavior and this type of behavior can often be a challenge for pet parents. Prey drive is normal, it is manageable and you can train a dog to stop reacting or redirect those instincts into something just as pleasurable, such as games. It is not, however, a reason to get rid of your dog you have promised to love forever.
Today, we are re-featuring the stunning Emma! This beautiful girl is a very sweet and super smart girl who has so much love to give. She is about 7 years young and has been at The Shelter Connection since 2016 and there is absolutely no reason for her to wait any longer; it’s way past time this girl finds her “furever” family.
Emma was originally adopted from this very same shelter back in 2015, but was unfortunately returned. Although the family loved Emma very much, they were simply not able to manage her high prey drive. Just imagine how sad and confused this beautiful soul must be to be back in the shelter after having had what she thought was her forever home. It is beyond heartbreaking just thinking about it. The family has stated that in the house she was happy, relaxed, house trained, and not destructive — a perfect Angel!
A strong prey drive in dogs can be a problem if it means your dog chases anything that moves. While this can be fun when you’re up for a game of fetch, it’s not such a good time when you’re out for a walk and your pup tries to tear after every animal that wanders into their peripheral vision. Prey drive also has a positive side. The term prey drive primarily refers to a dog’s level of excitement or motivation to perform a task involving hunting-related behaviors or going after an object.
Emma loves going on long walks on the nature trails, crushing the agility course (she even does the weave poles) and of course, a nice petting session; she is also a pro at all her commands. Emma walks nicely on the leash, but begins to pull when she sees another dog or an animal she wants to chase. Because of this, the shelter does not recommend she be walked by any children in her future home. Finding methods to manage Emma’s prey drive – especially when out in public on walks – is vitally important.
Emma is the perfect balance of playful and couch potato; outside she can keep up with the best of them, but once she’s inside, a couch and a soft blanket are all she needs to relax. The volunteers at the shelter describe her as exuberant and happy-go-lucky but not over the top at all. Emma is thrilled to meet all people, but due to her high prey drive she would need to be the only pet in a household.
She needs an active home where she can exercise on a daily basis. A very special mom and dad — a savvy, experienced, strong, and patient individual or family who will be committed to her and will put in the time needed to teach her the ropes of life and help her become the best she can be. Individuals with time to engage her in other play activities that involve chasing, catching and retrieving, playing with toys, playing fetch, tug of war or involving her in agility sports as a positive and fun outlet for her prey drive.
Emma would make a fabulous family dog and would do best in a home with children 12 years and up; she really is very friendly with people. She just needs a home with children responsible enough to not accidentally leave gates/doors open etc. Ideally a home with a solid 6 foot fenced in yard especially if the neighbor has a dog. She does not try to get away from you; it’s only if she sees another dog or animal to chase.
Ultimately, while it is difficult to change an innate, instinctive behavior, it is possible to manage a high prey drive dog a lot better with the right training and intervention. One of the main reasons dogs like Emma chase things is simply because it is fun. They get an adrenaline rush from the chase. You can counteract this by using their favorite toy or tasty treat when working on their recall. You need to be more interesting than the thing they are chasing and you can achieve success.
Emma is an affectionate companion and an all around amazing dog with a lively personality. She is very people oriented, eager to please and very intelligent. She is a wonderful girl that truly deserves a second chance for a good life.
If you’re interested in this gorgeous girl, make an appointment and head down to the shelter. Don’t hesitate because Emma has been waiting far too long already. Although she needs to be your one and only pet, she is so full of life and love that she is all you will ever need!
The Shelter Connection
75 Marino Avenue
Port Washington, NY 11050
(516) 869-6311
Be sure to head over to Adoption Central, share Emma and all the other Featured Dog Friday pups still in search of their forever homes.