Escaping Dogs: Why It Happens and How to Stop It

There’s nothing more stressful than discovering your dog has escaped. Whether they’re missing for five minutes or five hours, it can be terrifying—and escaping can be dangerous for your dog and unsettling for others.

At Jordan Dog Training, we know dogs don’t escape just to be difficult. There’s always a reason—and with the right understanding and support, escaping can be stopped for good.

This blog explains:

• Why dogs escape
• The role of enrichment, training, and routine
• How to secure your yard and reduce escape risk
• What local laws say about escaped dogs
• How to create a safer, more fulfilling environment

Why Do Dogs Escape?

Dogs don’t escape to annoy us—they’re usually trying to solve a problem or meet a need. The most common reasons include:

🐾 Boredom

Many dogs left alone in a backyard for hours have nothing to do. If there’s no mental stimulation, escaping becomes an adventure.

🐾 Lack of Exercise

A yard is not a substitute for a walk. Daily walks help burn physical and mental energy and provide important sniffing and enrichment.

✅ Why Letting Your Dog Sniff on Walks is So Important

🐾 Separation Anxiety

Some dogs panic when left alone. Escaping may be a sign of distress, not disobedience.

✅ Separation Anxiety in Dogs – What You Need to Know

🐾 Noise or Storm Phobia

Loud sounds like fireworks or thunderstorms can trigger a flight response. Even dogs that have never escaped before may bolt in fear.

✅ Helping Dogs with Storm Phobia

🐾 Mating Behaviour

Undesexed dogs, especially males, are more likely to roam in search of a mate.

🐾 Social Seeking

If your dog hears children playing or dogs barking nearby, they may try to escape just to join the fun.

🐾 Prey Drive

A passing bird, cat, or possum may trigger your dog’s natural chase instinct—and they’ll do whatever it takes to follow it.

Some Breeds Are More Likely to Escape

Certain breeds are more genetically driven to roam or chase:

• Working breeds (e.g. Border Collies, Kelpies) may become restless or frustrated
• Scent hounds (e.g. Beagles) will follow a scent wherever it leads
• Spitz types (e.g. Huskies) are notorious escape artists

Every dog is unique, but understanding your dog’s natural drives can help you manage them more effectively.

Step One: Secure the Property

Before you work on behaviour, make sure your yard is physically escape-proof. Check for:

• Fences at least 1.8m high
• Self-latching gates or double-gate systems
• Buried mesh or concrete strips to block digging
• No climbable objects near the fence
• Regular fence checks for gaps or weak spots

✅ How to Stop Fence Running and Barrier Frustration

Step Two: Remove the Desire to Escape

Dogs are much less likely to leave a yard that’s safe, engaging, and fulfilling. Here’s how:

💡 Daily Enrichment

Dogs need regular mental stimulation to stay happy and balanced.

Some easy ideas:

• Stuffed Kongs and frozen lick mats
• Treat scavenger hunts
• Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats
• Digging pits or sandboxes
• Hide-and-seek games with toys

✅ Mental Stimulation for Dogs – Easy Enrichment Ideas

💡 Daily Walks Are a Must

Even a short walk with time to sniff can make a huge difference.

✅ How to Walk Your Dog – Setting Up for Success

💡 Build a Routine

Dogs feel more secure when their day is predictable. Set consistent times for:

• Meals
• Walks
• Enrichment
• Play
• Rest

This can help reduce anxiety and minimise the urge to escape.

Stress and Anxiety Need Special Attention

Fear-related escaping is common. If your dog bolts during storms or when left alone:

• Create a safe indoor den or crate
• Use white noise or calming music
• Keep dogs inside during storms or fireworks
• Speak to your vet about calming aids if needed

Public Safety and Council Rules

An escaping dog isn’t just a risk to themselves—it can cause problems for others too.

• Some people are terrified of dogs, regardless of size
• Your dog may approach a reactive or leashed dog, causing a conflict
• Dogs may chase wildlife or cause traffic accidents

Under Australian law, dogs must be securely confined to your property. If your dog escapes:

• You may face fines or impoundment
• You may be held liable if your dog causes injury or damage

What If Escaping Becomes a Habit?

Dogs that escape more than once often become clever and persistent. They may:

• Watch for open gates
• Dig gradually over time
• Wait for the perfect opportunity

If this happens:

• Supervise outdoor time
• Consider a GPS tracker
• Add visual barriers to reduce fence fixation
• Work with a qualified behaviourist early

Training Makes a Big Difference

You can teach your dog to stay calm, make good choices, and respond to your cues.

Training goals:

• Reliable recall
• Impulse control (“wait”, “stay”, “leave it”)
• Calm behaviour near fences and gates
• Confidence and trust in their environment

✅ Explore Our Positive Dog Training Services

In Summary

A secure fence is essential—but real success comes from understanding what your dog needs, and helping them feel content to stay home.

✔ Secure the yard

✔ Walk your dog daily

✔ Enrich their environment

✔ Build routine and predictability

✔ Address stress or fear responses

✔ Train for calm and control

✔ Be aware of your legal responsibilities

Need Help with an Escape Artist?

At Jordan Dog Training, we’ve helped thousands of families just like yours. Whether it’s simple gate security or complex behaviour modification, our team is here to guide you with kind, effective training.

✅ Book a Behaviour Consultation

✅ Explore Our Full Range of Services

✅ Visit Our Blog for More Dog Training Advice

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended as general guidance and is based on our experience as dog trainers and behaviourists. It is not veterinary advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, wellbeing, or mobility, we always recommend speaking with your vet to ensure the best care for your dog.