How Prey Drive Affects Training and Obedience

Prey drive is one of the biggest influences on a dog’s behavior—but it’s also one of the most overlooked in training. If your dog bolts after squirrels or ignores you when something moves, you’re not alone. The instinct to chase is powerful, but it doesn’t mean your dog is untrainable.

With the right approach, even high prey drive dogs can learn impulse control and become reliable companions.

Why Prey Drive Disrupts Training

Dogs with strong prey drive are easily distracted by movement, sounds, and smells. That can make traditional obedience training more difficult. Common challenges include:

• Ignoring recall when something runs by

• Lunging on walks

• Fixating on birds, squirrels, or toys

• Breaking focus during training sessions

The stronger the prey drive, the harder it is for a dog to choose listening over instinct—unless you’ve built that skill intentionally.

Training Strategies for High Prey Drive Dogs

1. Build Engagement First

A dog can’t follow commands if they’re not paying attention. Before expecting obedience, create a strong foundation of engagement.

Try this:

• Use high-value treats or favorite toys.

• Reward eye contact and “check-ins.”

• Play structured games like tug or fetch before asking for obedience.

2. Master the Recall with Distractions

“Come” can save your dog’s life—but prey drive makes it one of the hardest commands to teach.

Tips:

• Start in low-distraction environments.

• Use long lines for safety during practice.

• Reward generously when your dog returns—even if they hesitated.

Practice around mild distractions and gradually work your way up to real-world prey triggers.

3. Teach an Emergency Interruption Cue

Some owners use cues like “Leave it!” or “Touch!” to interrupt prey drive before it escalates into a chase.

Key steps:

• Pair the cue with high rewards.

• Practice it at increasing levels of distraction.

• Use it before the dog locks in visually or tenses up.

4. Use a Prey Drive as a Reward

If your dog loves to chase a flirt pole or ball, use that as motivation.

Example:

• Ask for a sit or down.

• When they obey, release them to chase.

• This teaches control unlocks fun, rather than always ending it.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Punishing prey drive: It’s instinctual—not a behavior problem. Punishment can damage trust without solving the core issue.

• Underestimating distractions: A dog that recalls in the backyard may not listen at the park. Always train for real-life situations.

• Inconsistent follow-through: High prey drive dogs need consistency and clarity to know what’s expected.

Tools That Help Training

• Long leash or drag line – Gives freedom while maintaining control.

• Clicker or marker word – Sharpens communication.

• Flirt pole – Lets your dog chase safely and under control.

• Treat pouch – Keeps high-value rewards ready to go.

Managing Expectations

No training erases prey drive—it teaches your dog how to make better choices. Focus on improvement, not perfection. With time and patience, your dog can learn to respond to you even when instincts are strong.

Conclusion

Prey drive presents challenges—but also incredible training opportunities. These dogs are motivated, smart, and engaged. When you channel their instincts through structured training, you don’t suppress who they are—you bring out the best in them.

Next up: we’ll look at how to manage prey drive in multi-pet households and around children.