Low Prey Drive Dogs: A Guide to Choosing the Right Breed

If you're looking for a dog with low prey drive, you're in luck because there are many breeds that fit the bill.

Dogs with low prey drive are generally less likely to chase small animals like squirrels or cats.

Some breeds are naturally more laid-back and won't get excited by the sight of a ball or toy, let alone a living creature.

For example, the Bulldog is a breed known for its calm and gentle nature, making it a great choice for families with small pets.

These dogs are often happy to lounge around the house and get plenty of exercise through short, gentle walks.

They're also often less demanding of attention and can be content with just being near their owners.

The Basset Hound is another breed with low prey drive, and its short legs make it less likely to chase after anything too quickly.

Overall, dogs with low prey drive can make wonderful companions for people who want a relaxed and easy-going pet.

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If you're looking for dog breeds with low prey drive, you're in luck because there are some great options out there.

The American Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one breed that stands out, with one dog in a research survey showing no interest at all in the predatory motor sequence.

Some dogs, like the Bearded Collie, have a mixture of being rarely interested or not interested in each part of the predatory motor sequence, with two dogs in the research exhibiting this trait.

These breeds are perfect for families with small pets or for owners who want to avoid the high energy and potential destruction that can come with a strong prey drive.

If you're looking for a dog with low prey drive, choosing the right breed is crucial. Individual dogs of each breed will behave very differently from each other.

Research shows that breed does matter when it comes to prey drive, so avoiding breeds that have been created to help people hunt, remove vermin, or herd livestock is a great idea.

To find a dog with low prey drive, consider getting one from a reputable rescue who has been able to assess your new dog in a range of environments. This includes the sort of place where you live, so if you live somewhere with lots of rabbits, you want a rescue who has been able to walk the dog where there are lots of rabbits.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when finding the right dog:

If you're an avid jogger or hiker, you likely want a companion that will ignore the local wildlife instead of dragging you after it.

Having small children can be chaotic, and you might want a breed that is friendly and less likely to herd them around the house.

Every dog is an individual, so it's essential to remember that low energy breed characteristics can vary from dog to dog, despite their breed.

If you own other pets, such as cats or pocket pets, you might not want a breed naturally inclined to chasing them around the house.

By choosing a low energy dog breed, you can ensure a more relaxed and peaceful household environment for everyone.

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Finding the right dog for you and your family can be a daunting task, but with some research and guidance, you can increase your chances of finding a great companion.

Individual dogs of each breed will behave very differently from each other, so don't rely solely on breed when searching for a low-prey drive dog.

Choose dogs who have been bred to be show dogs or companion dogs, as they are less likely to have a strong prey drive.

Getting your dog from a reputable rescue who has assessed your new dog in various environments can also help ensure you're getting a dog that's well-suited to your lifestyle.

A reputable breeder who is breeding dogs to be companions can also be a good option, as they can select the most suitable puppy for your family.

Breed does matter when it comes to prey drive, so it's a good idea to avoid breeds that have been created to help people hunt, remove vermin, or herd livestock.

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Here are some steps to follow when finding a dog:

Get your dog from a reputable rescue who has been able to assess your new dog in a range of environments.

Find a reputable breeder who is breeding dogs to be companions.

Avoid breeds that have been created to help people hunt, remove vermin, or herd livestock.

Dogs with low prey drive are generally laid-back and easy-going, often described as " Velcro dogs" because they love to be close to their owners.

They tend to be less energetic and require less exercise than high-prey-drive dogs, which makes them a great fit for apartment living or families with smaller yards.

Some breeds, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, have a strong instinct to follow their owners and can become anxious if left alone for too long.

Low-prey-drive dogs are often less likely to chase squirrels or other small animals, but they may still enjoy playing fetch or engaging in other low-key activities.

They tend to be more food-motivated than high-prey-drive dogs, which makes training easier and more effective.

In general, low-prey-drive dogs are more interested in interacting with their owners than in chasing after toys or small animals.

Related reading: Do German Shepherds Have High Prey Drive

Dogs with low prey drive can be relatively easy to train because they are more focused on their human family and less distracted by small animals.

To start training, it's essential to establish a routine and set clear boundaries. This helps them understand what's expected of them and reduces the likelihood of unwanted behavior.

Positive reinforcement techniques work well with these dogs, as they respond positively to rewards and praise. This encourages good behavior and strengthens the bond between dog and owner.

The Pekingese is a breed that requires a specialized approach to training due to its distinct personality and temperament. Consistent training and proper behavioral management are crucial for a well-adjusted pet.

Low prey drive is a characteristic of the Pekingese, but it's essential to remember that every dog is an individual, and prey drive can vary from dog to dog.

Pekingese training requires patience due to their stubborn streak, but they respond well to positive reinforcement techniques like rewards, praise, and playtime.

Rewards are a great motivator, and treats, praise, and playtime are effective in encouraging the desired behavior.

Consistent commands are also essential, as simple and clear instructions help reinforce learning.

Short training sessions are necessary, as Pekingese have smaller attention spans.

To address low motivation levels, it's crucial to implement training that provides ample mental exercise, such as puzzle toys and new commands or tricks.

Here are some specific training exercises to focus on:

These exercises cater to the Pekingese's need for mental stimulation and attention, which is essential for keeping them engaged and motivated.