Show Notes
Prey drive is a natural instinct in dogs—some have more of it, some have less, and it can be influenced by genetics, environment, and training. But here’s the thing: prey drive is not a justification for punishment. I often hear the argument that dogs with a strong prey drive must be managed with shock collars to prevent them from chasing wildlife or livestock. But that simply isn’t true. In the videos I’m sharing, you’ll see my dogs in close proximity to a herd of deer, cows, and even a horse. The fencing and hedging separating them is only 4ft—something they could easily clear if they wanted to. Yet, they choose not to. They watch, they observe, and they disengage without issue. This isn’t because I’ve punished them into submission. It’s because I’ve built a foundation of trust, engagement, and choice. They don’t need force to make the right decision—they need guidance, reinforcement, and an understanding of expectations. As a wheelchair user, I can’t rely on physically intervening if my dogs make a sudden movement. Instead, I focus on long-distance handling, reinforcing communication and connection so my dogs actively choose to disengage. This proves that mobility challenges don’t mean you need harsher tools—just smarter training. If you have a dog with strong prey drive, punishment isn’t the answer. Instead, focus on: 🦌Management – Secure areas, long lines, and controlled environments. 🦌 Training – Teaching disengagement, recall, and alternative behaviors. 🦌 Fulfillment – Satisfying their needs through appropriate outlets like scent work, flirt poles, or structured play. A dog’s instincts should never be a reason to resort to pain or fear. With the right approach, we can work with their natural drives, not against them. Mutts and Mischief is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
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