Keeping your dog in your yard is convenient for giving him space to run around and work off energy. However, when left alone, a dog can grow bored and become interested in what is happening beyond the confines of your yard. While this may seem fun to the dog, escaping the yard is dangerous, as the dog could get lost or be struck by a car. You can stop your dog from escaping through obedience training, proper yard time and supervision, and by strengthening your boundaries.
Instructions
Teach your dog to come. As your dog approaches the borders of your yard and tries to escape, tell him to come. Repetition and consistency will help condition the dog to stay away from the yard's borders. Use a firm voice if necessary to get your dog's attention, but then reward him when he does come so he will associate the command with something positive. Channel the dog's attention elsewhere by engaging him in an activity such as a game of catch. Use a long leash, if necessary, when first teaching your dog to come, then gradually wean the dog off the leash.
Make your yard comfortable and enjoyable for your dog. Do not leave your dog in the yard in poor weather conditions and do not put her out as a form of punishment. If your dog comes to think of the yard as a negative place, she may want to escape. Provide your dog with a comfortable doghouse and supply your yard with items of diversion to deter her interest in what is beyond the fence. Toys, bones or even another dog can help.
Do not leave your dog alone in the yard for long periods at a time. A dog needs interaction and a lonely or anxious dog will inevitably want to go exploring. Acquire a dog sitter if necessary.
Make sure you are taking your dog out for plenty of exercise and that there is diversity in his activities. A dog with a lot of pent up energy or who never sees anything but the yard will also inevitably want to go exploring.
Strengthen your fence. Extend the length of your fence, replace the slats with longer slats or slats that are closer together, or repair any holes or broken slats. Place cinder blocks along the bottom to deter digging.