If your dog is already familiar with these commands, you will not need to practice them outside for a full month. Your dog may need only a few days of practice doing the commands on a leash. Reward your dog with treats and/or verbal praise each time he correctly follows your commands. [6] X Expert Source Osama MaghawriProfessional Dog Trainer Expert Interview. 9 September 2020. Add some fun to these training sessions by giving your dog toys he can easily play with while on the leash, such as Kong toys.
This strategy will work well if you have trees in your backyard. If you do not have trees, do not allow your dog to chase after the squirrel—he could very well catch it and kill it. If the squirrel runs up a tree, your dog could sit under the tree for hours, waiting for the squirrel to come down. [8] X Research source With your dog at a standstill, this would be the opportunity for you to divert his attention away from the squirrel. Have his leash with you.
Put the leash on your dog as he’s munching on the treat. [10] X Research source
Go through this process each time your dog sees a squirrel in your yard.
Play Frisbee and hide-and-seek with your dog. [13] X Research source You could also play fetch with your dog. Find an exercise toy that has a sheepskin lure tied to the end of what looks like a fishing pole. [14] X Research source Using this toy with your dog could keep him entertained for long periods. During your outdoor playtime, try to choose a time when you know squirrels will not be around. If squirrels are a constant problem, choose games that you can play indoors.
Give your dog positive reinforcement (treats, verbal praise) when he sits and stays. When your dog responds to these commands during ‘low-distraction’ playtime, start practicing them when you go out for walks where there will likely be more distractions. The goal is to manage his prey drive such that he focuses his attention on you, rather than on a squirrel.
Distract your dog with a noise. Bring a squeaky toy with you so that, as soon as your dog sees a squirrel (or if you notice it before he does), you can make a noise that will snap him out of his prey drive trance. [17] X Research source Block your dog’s movement with your body to prevent him from chasing after the squirrel. You can also move your dog sideways and away from the direction of the squirrel, making sure not to pull the leash as you move him away. [18] X Research source Try adding variation to your walk: change your pace, switch directions randomly, and make detours. All of these sudden changes will force your dog to pay more attention to what you’re doing, and less attention to something he can chase. [19] X Research source Touch your dog to distract him. This will probably startle your dog the first time, but he will eventually get used to the touch, making it an ineffective long-term strategy to manage his prey drive. [20] X Research source
Rake up any nuts and berries, and remove any leftover food (human or pet). [22] X Research source Bird feeders are very enticing for squirrels, so it would be a good idea to remove them from your yard. [23] X Research source If that is not practical, replace the birdseed with something that squirrels do not like, such as safflower. [24] X Research source
Certain plants, such as the Crown Imperial flower, can be deterrents to squirrels. You could also spray commercially available squirrel repellent in your yard. [26] X Research source
