Episode 274: What is prey locking in dog behaviour

Prey locking in dogs is a natural instinct deeply rooted in their ancestral heritage as hunters. When a dog locks onto an object, it means they've spotted something of interest, whether it's a squirrel, a ball, or even a moving vehicle. This behaviour is characterised by intense focus and a stiffened posture. However, it can be a source of frustration for both owners and trainers alike. Owners may find prey locking frustrating for several reasons. Firstly, it can make walking your dog a challenge as they might suddenly fixate on a target, leading to tugging and pulling on the lead. This not only causes discomfort for the owner but also poses a danger if the dog lunges towards traffic or other hazards. Additionally, redirecting a locked-in dog's attention can be quite challenging, especially if they are determined to chase their prey. Trainers, too, encounter difficulties when addressing prey locking. Teaching a dog to break their focus and respond to commands in such a heightened state of arousal can be time-consuming and demanding. It necessitates patience, consistent training, and the use of various techniques to redirect their attention towards more desirable behaviours. To better manage this instinctual response, it's important to understand that prey locking is a natural canine behaviour. Employing training methods that encourage impulse control and redirection can be highly beneficial for both owners and trainers, enabling dogs to enjoy their environment without causing frustration or safety concerns. Further details looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community. Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us. You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview. If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand? Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice. Support our supporters Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person. Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR Professional dog training services DanKroft K9 SHOW SPONSOR Daycare and training from the heart dog training SHOW SPONSOR Dog training all styles in Adelaide Dog Club SA SHOW SPONSOR Our beloved friend and regular contributor, Birdy O’Sheedy can be found at birdyosheedy.com HUGE thanks to all our contributing artists. Please support their works Jane StuartAvery KellerZoie Neidy