Re: Chasing joggers, walkers & cyclists aggressively

In Reply to: Chasing joggers, walkers & cyclists aggressively
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Posted by:  Judy
Posted on:  September 21, 2002 at 16:12:32

: We live on a corner in an active neighborhood. We have installed an underground fence which is effective most of the time. However, our 2 yr old JR is very territorial and chases/barks at everyone that passes by. In some cases she has gone through the fence after the person. We shame her when she does this, but the problem continues. We are looking for suggestions on how to change/limit this behavior.

Response:

Dear Judy -- I'm afraid you're looking at this "problem" from the wrong side. You close by asking how to change your dog, when its really the environment you've set up for the dog that will have to change.

As you've discovered, the Jack Russell's drive to hunt, to chase, to join in some exciting activity is so strong, that its willing to endure momentary pain to have its fun. JR's require special containment set ups that take into consideration their special needs. Your JR loose in the open-looking yard will always be tempted to break out, I'm afraid. Most of them just can't be passive when viewing running kids and bicycles zooming past. Wish I had a good answer for you. Try to change the yard & boundaries, not the dog.