Stop Bolting Out the Door with This Dog Training Hack

Dogs love running out the door because the outside world is so fun! New smells, sounds, and places to explore get them all hyped up. But why do they do it? Here’s the deal:

• They’re Super Excited: The sound of the doorbell or seeing their leash makes them want to zoom out.
• No Training Yet: If they haven’t learned to wait, they just go for it.
• It Feels Good: Running outside is like a big reward, so they keep doing it.

Knowing why your dog bolts out the door helps you fix it. Let’s talk about why this habit is risky.

The Dangers of Dogs Running Out the Door

When your dog bolts out the door, bad things can happen. You want to keep your furry buddy safe, right? Here are some risks:

• Car Accidents: If they run into the street, a car might hit them.
• Getting Lost: They could wander off and not find their way back.
• Stranger Danger: Someone might take them, or another animal could hurt them.
• Stress for You: Chasing your dog is no fun and makes you worry.

Teaching your dog to stop bolting out the door keeps them safe and makes life easier for you.

The One Simple Trick to Stop Your Dog from Bolting

A dog trainer named Sarah Hodgson shared an awesome trick to stop your dog from bolting out the door. It’s super easy: use a leash and treats to teach them to wait. Here’s how it works:

1. Step on the Leash: Put your foot on the leash so your dog can’t run when you open the door.
2. Say “Wait”: Tell your dog to wait in a calm voice. Please give them a treat when they look at you and stay still.
3. Practice Opening the Door: Open the door a little. If they stay calm, give them a treat. If they try to run, close the door and try again.
4. Make Staying Inside Fun: Use toys or treats to make staying inside more exciting than running out.
5. Let Them Go When Ready: When they wait nicely, say “okay” or their name to let them go outside, and give them a treat.

This trick is simple and works great to stop your dog from bolting out the door.

Step-by-Step Guide to Training Your Dog to Wait

Let’s break it down so you can teach your dog to stop bolting out the door. Follow these easy steps:

1. Start with a Closed Door

Stand by the closed door with your dog on a leash. Give them a treat when they’re calm, like sitting or standing still. Use yummy treats like chicken bits or their favorite snack.

2. Introduce the Doorknob

Touch the doorknob, but don’t open it yet. If your dog stays chill, give them a treat. If they get too excited, wait until they calm down before moving on.

3. Open the Door Slightly

Open the door just a tiny bit. If your dog doesn’t move, toss them a treat. If they try to bolt out the door, close it gently and wait for them to relax.

4. Widen the Door

Slowly open the door more each time. Keep giving treats when your dog stays calm. If they try to run, close the door and start over.

5. Add the “Wait” Command

When your dog gets good at staying still, say “wait” before you open the door. Give them a treat when they listen to stop bolting out the door.

6. Practice with Distractions

Try this when someone rings the doorbell or waves a toy outside. Reward your dog for staying focused on you instead of bolting out the door.

7. Release with a Cue

Use a word like “okay” or your dog’s name to let them go outside. Give them a treat when they walk out calmly.

Here’s a quick table to help you remember the steps:

Tips for Training Multiple Dogs

Got more than one dog? It’s a bit trickier, but you can still stop them from bolting out the door. Here’s how:

• Train One at a Time: Teach each dog to wait separately before trying it together.
• Use Their Names: Say “wait” to all dogs, then call one dog’s name (like “Max, go!”) to let them out.
• Keep Leashes Separate: Make sure leashes don’t get tangled to avoid a mess.
• Be Patient: It takes time for all dogs to learn to stop bolting out the door.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Training your dog to stop bolting out the door is easy, but you might mess up if you’re not careful. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using Different Words: Stick to “wait” so your dog doesn’t get confused.
• Going Too Fast: Take it slow to make sure your dog gets it.
• Yelling at Your Dog: Don’t shout if they try to bolt out the door—it scares them and doesn’t help.
• Using Boring Treats: Pick treats your dog loves, like cheese or meat.
• Skipping Practice: Keep practicing in real situations, like when the mail arrives.

Why Positive Reinforcement Works

This trick works because it uses treats and praise to make your dog happy about waiting. Experts at Dogs Trust say staying calm and quiet helps your dog focus. Don’t force them to sit if they’re too excited—just reward them when they’re calm. This builds trust and makes them want to stop bolting out the door.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Success

Want your dog to keep being good and stop bolting out the door? Try these tips:

• Play a Lot: A tired dog is less likely to run out. Take them for walks or play fetch.
• Use a Leash Inside: Keep the leash on during training for extra control.
• Practice Every Day: Try the “wait” trick when going into rooms or getting in the car.
• Get Everyone Involved: Make sure your family uses the same “wait” word and treats.
• Add Safety Stuff: Use a baby gate or screen door to keep your dog from bolting out the door by accident.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog just won’t stop bolting out the door or seems super nervous, a pro trainer can help. Look for someone certified by groups like the APDT or CCPDT. They’ll make a plan just for your dog.

Conclusion: A Safer, Happier Dog

Teaching your dog to stop bolting out the door is a big win for their safety and your stress levels. With this easy trick—using a leash and treats—you can help them wait calmly. Follow the steps, avoid mistakes, and keep practicing. Soon, your dog will chill out instead of bolting out the door. Start today, and enjoy worry-free walks with your best buddy!