How Secure Dog Fields Help Dogs with High Prey Drive Walk Safely and Calmly

If your dog freezes at the sight of a bird or disappears at the first rustle in the hedgerow, you may be living with a high prey drive dog. Secure fields offer freedom, safety and fulfilment — without the risk.

Understanding prey drive

Prey drive refers to the instinctive sequence of search, stalk, chase and grab-bite. Dogs bred for hunting, herding or working often show intense focus and movement towards wildlife (Moretti et al., 2015). While entirely natural, unchecked prey drive can lead to risky or stressful walks.

How secure fields manage the risk

At Poundon Pastures, we use 6 ft fencing buried 50 cm deep, with 5 cm by 10 cm mesh spacing — enough to keep wildlife out and your dog safely in. With the environment controlled, your dog can chase, sprint and play without the danger of vanishing after prey.

Exercise that actually helps

Not all walks reduce prey drive, but purposeful off-lead movement in a calm, enriched setting does help regulate it. Physical activity in secure areas reduces the buildup of frustration and hyperarousal in dogs prone to chasing (Zilocchi et al., 2016).

A space to practise recall and focus

Recall training doesn’t start in a field of distractions. In a secure dog field, you can build connection and focus without interference. This makes it easier to teach your dog to pause and return even when instinct kicks in (Bensky et al., 2013).

You can relax too

Owners of prey-driven dogs often walk with one eye on the horizon, worried about wildlife, roads or disappearing dogs. A secure field removes that edge, creating a calmer walk for everyone.

Final thoughts

Dogs with high prey drive aren’t bad dogs, they’re just wired to move. A secure dog field channels that energy into safe, joyful experiences. It’s a place where your dog can be themselves, and you can breathe a little easier.

If your dog has a high prey drive, or even if they don't, come visit us soon - Book here

References

• Bensky, M. K. et al. (2013). The effects of training and environmental enrichment on fear responses in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 8(5), 297–305.

• Moretti, L. et al. (2015). Behavioural development of dogs and breed-specific tendencies. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 164, 73–79.

• Zilocchi, M. et al. (2016). Effects of structured exercise on dogs with behaviour problems. Dog Behavior, 2(2), 17–24.