As a specialized human, I am writing this article to shed some light on a concerning behavior that Cavalier owners might have observed in their 2-year-old pups – chasing cars. Many Cavalier owners might have seen their furry friends develop a sudden interest in chasing cars on the street, which can leave them worried and confused. In this article, I will explain why this behavior occurs and what you can do to stop it.
Firstly, it is important to recognize that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a breed of hunting dogs that have a strong prey instinct. They were originally bred as hunting dogs, and therefore, their natural instincts entail chasing fast-moving prey, which in today’s context of road traffic, can mean pursuing cars. When they hear or see a car zoom by, their natural instinct kicks in, and they feel the urge to chase, bark, or lunge at the car.
Secondly, chasing cars can be potentially dangerous, not just for the dog, but also for the driver and passengers in the car. It can increase the risk of accidents and injuries, especially if your Cavalier runs onto the road or leash leash jerks you too abruptly while you try to control the situation. This behavior could also be a sign of separation anxiety, which in turn can cause a myriad of problems for your pup and your home. Therefore, it is vital to address this behavior to ensure the safety of your Cavalier and others.
So, what can you do to stop this behavior?
One of the most effective methods is to teach your Cavalier a strong recall command. You should train your pup to come back to you immediately upon calling them back, even when they are focused on chasing a car. Use a positive reinforcement technique to reward your Cavalier whenever they come back to you promptly, along with lots of praise and affection so they associate the behavior with good feelings.
Another technique you can try is to redirect your pup’s energy. Offer them a toy or treat that will get their attention off the chasing and on something they enjoy doing. Consider using a long range dog whistle for training which will redirect your dog’s attention with ultrasonic sounds.
It’s important to remain patient and consistent when training your Cavalier. It might take some time and effort to train your pup to stop chasing cars, but with lots of love, patience, and consistency, it is possible.
To conclude, chasing cars in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is a common behavior that needs to be addressed urgently. As a responsible owner, it is your duty to ensure that your pup does not put themselves or others in any danger. Training your Cavalier to develop strong recall commands and redirecting their energy will go a long way in addressing this issue. So, put in the effort and time to train your Cavalier, and you will see promising results.