Prey drive in dogs

Prey drive

Understanding Prey Drive-in Dogs

Prey drive is an instinct in dogs, stemming from their evolutionary past when hunting was essential for survival. This innate urge to chase, capture, and sometimes kill moving objects remains in domesticated dogs today, even though they no longer rely on hunting for food.

Prey drive can be seen in various ways, from fetching a ball to pursuing small animals like squirrels. However, it's crucial to distinguish between prey drive and aggression, as they are not the same.

Prey Drive vs. Aggression

Prey drive follows a specific behavioural pattern known as the predatory sequence:

1. Orient – The dog notices movement.

2. Eye – They fixate on the object or animal.

3. Stalk – They move cautiously toward the target.

4. Chase – The pursuit begins.

5. Grab-bite – The dog catches the prey.

6. Kill-bite – A bite meant to immobilize or kill.

7. Dissect – The dog tears apart the prey.

8. Consume – Eating the captured prey.

Most dogs do not complete this sequence, but certain behaviours can be concerning. While prey drive should be managed, it should not be entirely suppressed.

In contrast, aggression is typically driven by fear, stress, or the need to establish dominance. Aggressive dogs may display defensive behaviours such as growling, baring teeth, lip curling, or tail tucking. Unlike prey drive, which involves moving toward an object, aggression often involves attempts to create distance. Identifying the difference between these two behaviours is key to addressing them appropriately.

Indicators of a Strong Prey Drive

Dogs with a high prey drive typically display:

Intense focus: They fixate on moving objects or animals, ignoring other distractions.

Stalking tendencies: Some dogs crouch and stealthily move toward their target.

An intense chase instinct: They instinctively pursue small animals or moving objects.

Pouncing and grabbing: If they catch their "prey," they may attempt to seize or shake it.

Breeds with a Strong Prey Drive

Certain breeds are more prone to high prey drives due to their history as hunters or herders. Breeds like terriers, border collies, and greyhounds often display strong chasing instincts. However, prey drive varies among individual dogs, even within the same breed.

How to Manage Prey Drive

While some dogs have a naturally higher prey drive, proper training can help manage their behaviour to ensure the dog's and other animals' safety. Here are some effective strategies:

Early training and socialization—To reduce reactive behaviours, Expose your dog to different environments, people, and animals early on.

Obedience commands—Teaching "leave it," "stay," and "recall" commands can help redirect their focus when the prey drive kicks in.

Physical and mental stimulation – Regular exercise and engaging activities help burn excess energy, reducing the intensity of prey-driven behaviours.

Using safety tools – Leashes, harnesses, and secure collars can prevent unwanted chases and ensure better control.

Consistency and patience—Managing a prey drive takes time and effort, so maintaining clear rules and expectations is key.

Seeking professional guidance: If prey drive becomes problematic, consulting a dog behaviourist can provide tailored training techniques to address the issue. Contact me or visit the product page to see the training programs I provide.

Prey drive is a fundamental part of a dog's nature. However, with proper management, owners can ensure that their dogs interact safely with people and animals while fulfilling their natural instincts.