Chasing birds

[Uncle Dave]

Hi,

I have a 10 month terrier mix- a rescue adoption from 2 months ago. He's a great dog, very responsive, but loves to chase birds- uncontrollably. I walk him 2x/day at a local park but can't let him loose because he loses all control and would never come back to me. I have used a long clothesline- about 50 feet, to let him run w/o worrying about him running away, but I'm wondering if I shouldn't let him do that- as it only encourages him more. He's making good progress in most other areas, but totally loses it around other animals- especially birds!

Is it just terriers? Any suggestions?

Thanks!!!

[Todd]

Hi there and thanks for the post.

I think the line is a great idea. Use it like you would to train him to return. Start with a little bit of slack. If he races towards the birds growl at him with a GRRRR or AHHHHH and give him a yank on the line.
Then call him back, if he comes praise him, if not another yank and another growl.

Keep on reinforcing calm behaviour and punishhing over excitement at the birds.

As he gets better and better give him more and more freedom but take it slow.

Good luck and let me know how things go and if i can help anymore

Todd