Why You Should Never Chase Your Dog – A Proven Training Insight

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I’ve spent several years studying puppies, dogs, and training, and one principle that consistently stands out is: never chase your dog. It’s a habit that undermines recall and can create confusion for both owner and pet.

I Had A Dream…

Last week I dreamed of my guide‑dog puppy, Stetson, running loose in a Walmart. Employees chased him, trying to corral him. Stetson, seeing it as a game, sprinted past everyone, narrowly avoiding the chaos. The scene felt like a live comedy sketch.

That dream reminded me of a simple truth: when you chase a dog, it’s perceived as a game. The dog runs faster than you, and the moment you stop, the bond is lost. On walks and in parks, I’ve seen owners sprinting after their dogs only to watch them slip away in a few seconds.

So, how can you reliably get your dog to come to you? The answer is the opposite of chasing. See the image below for a visual illustration.

Run Away!

Instead of pursuing your dog, step back. Once you give a moment of distance, the dog may interpret the space as a challenge and start to chase you. It’s a game they enjoy, but it works in your favor by encouraging recall. Below is a snapshot of Linus and Stetson in action.

In my experience, creating a short distance between you and your puppy invites them to come to you. Try this approach on your next walk and observe how your dog responds. When you chase, does your puppy flee? When you step back, does the dog come to you? Share your results or any other effective recall techniques you’ve discovered.

UPDATE: Nearly nine years after first writing this article, the principle remains sound. When my five‑year‑old niece visits, she’s hesitant around the dogs. I remind her not to run, as it often triggers the chase game. Occasionally she does, and Linus, Raven, Archer, and Stetson will chase her in play.

On a second note, Archer loves the chase game he learned from Linus in our backyard. Whenever we let him outside, he initiates play, which unfortunately undermines his recall training.

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