Understanding Prey Drive in Dogs

If you have ever lived with a Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Weimaraner, or another working breed, you’ve probably lived with a dog that has a strong instinct to chase anything that moves. In short, you’ve had a dog with a strong prey drive.

What Is Prey Drive in Dogs?

Prey drive is a predatory instinct deeply rooted in a dog’s genetic makeup. It is a complex mix of biological and environmental factors that drives a dog’s hunting behavior.

While canine prey drive is natural, the human understanding of this instinct is not, especially with breeds known to be on the high end of the spectrum.

“The intensity of this genetic trait can vary significantly among dogs, ranging from a mild interest in moving objects to a strong desire to chase after animals, regardless of their size,” says Ashley Reely, founder and dog trainer at Meraki Dogs.

Prey Drive Goes Beyond Chasing Squirrels

“It’s important to note that a high prey drive isn’t just about chasing small animals. Dogs with this trait might also pursue larger animals like deer, livestock, or even horses,” Reely says. “Additionally, fast-moving objects such as bicycles or even small children can trigger this response, as they might be perceived similarly to prey.”

Reely explains that dogs with a high prey drive will “demonstrate distinct behaviors such as intense staring, attempting to chase, or showing signs of frustration like whining or barking when spotting an animal they cannot reach.” The drive factor may cause them to try to scale barriers or pull aggressively on their leash upon seeing potential prey.

What Is Low Prey Drive?

In contrast, dogs with low prey drive typically show little interest in other animals, says Nicole Kohanski, founder, dog behaviorist, and trainer at Texas-based Wiggle Butt Academy. “Dogs with low prey drive will be calm and possibly indifferent when visualizing wildlife. They may look at the critter but will disengage quickly and resume their walk or sniffing. Low prey drive dogs may have less interest in chasing moving toys like balls or flirt poles.”

Signs Your Dog May Have a High Prey Drive

While certain breeds are more likely to have a high prey, any dog can. A few of the indications are:

• Excessive chasing (of anything). Dogs with high prey drive may chase anything that moves, including cars, bikes, and other animals.
• They may stalk prey (or what they think is prey), whether it’s a squirrel, a cat, or a small child.
• Once a dog locks onto prey, it can be difficult to distract them.
• Excessive barking and growling at moving objects can be a sign of high prey drive.

Why You Need to Recognize Prey Drive

Dogs with high prey drive can pose a danger to themselves and others. They may chase traffic, attack other animals, or even harm people.

High prey drive can make training more challenging. Dogs may be easily distracted and struggle to focus on cues. If not managed properly, high prey drive can lead to behavioral issues such as aggression, anxiety, and destructive behavior.

Four Training Tips for Dogs With a High Prey Drive

To control dogs with high prey drive, Kohanski suggests that you:

1. Spend time on impulse control behaviors like “leave it” and work in increasingly difficult environments over time.
2. Provide a “legal” outlet for the dog’s prey-chasing behavior so that the need is satiated. FAST Cat is a fast-growing dog activity that may help.
3. Manage the environment to minimize the dog’s exposure to prey.
4. Ensure the dog has enough mental enrichment, such as activities like nose work that engage the brain.

“At home, dogs with a high prey drive may need slow introductions and close monitoring around smaller animals,” Reely says. “Despite training and management, some dogs may not be able to coexist safely with other pets. Occasionally, the only viable option might be to keep the dog as the single pet in the household to prevent any risks to other animals. This is an unfortunate reality when keeping dogs with intense prey drive.”