Boundary Control

Dear Bailey,

I am desperate for some dog advice. Last night my neighbor called said my dog, Clyde, had killed two of his chickens. I know that he goes in the woods between our houses, so I'm sure it was him. 

How can I stop him from killing the neighbors chickens without fencing in 14 acres? The hidden fence failed. He runs so fast that he goes right through it. When he tries to return home, he gets shocked. 

Clyde is a two year old yellow lab and generally a good watch dog around the house. I am sure this is an old problem and would like to hear some remedies that have been tried. He really is a good dog. 

Respectfully,

Michael E. McGregor 
Controls Engineer

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Bailey's Reply:

Dear Michael, 

Wow! Sounds like Clyde has life pretty good! I'd love to have all that space to run around in. And chickens to chase, too?! The most I get to see are city squirrels. I'm always attached to my leash when I see them, though, so I can't really chase them. I wish I was in Clyde's paws! Chickens! Chickens! Chickens! Oh... you wanted advice about how to STOP Clyde from getting out and getting a hold of those chickens? Okay, I'll calm down about thinking about chasing chickens and squirrels for just a moment... Here are some options:

• Keep Clyde inside at night. Most dogs truly enjoy sleeping inside the house with the family. And you'll be preventing him from getting into trouble.
• Create an ample fenced-in area for Clyde to be in when you can't supervise him. This way, you won't have to fence in your entire 14 acres, but you'll still know that Clyde is safe and out of trouble.
• If you haven't already taken him to obedience classes, find one as soon as possible. There, you'll learn how to teach Clyde to come to you when you call him (in addition to other things!). 
• When he's outside, always make sure he's under your direct supervision. 

I'm going to see if I can get my human to take me out looking for squirrels... Good luck to you and Clyde! 

<Bark!>

Bailey

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