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Some dogs see a closed crate or backyard gate as a boundary. Others see it as a challenge to escape.
From squeezing through openings to breaking out of crates, determined dogs can surprise their owners with their ability to escape. But while a successful jailbreak may seem amusing, repeated attempts can put dogs at risk of injury and may signal something, from boredom and excess energy to anxiety or discomfort with their environment, according to experts.
Meaghan recently experienced this firsthand with her 2-year-old rescue dog Sammy. While she was at work, a motion alert from her home camera pinged her phone, revealing Sammy squeezing through a zip-tied-reinforced kennel, she told Newsweek.
But her experience is far from unusual. Two veterinarians talked with Newsweek about how to manage an escape artist dog.
Making Sure Your Dog Is Safe
The first step after an escape attempt is making sure the dog is safe, said Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, DVM, CCRT, CVAT, Purina veterinarian.
“The first thing to do is not panic if you see that on your Ring camera,” Lobos said. “If you have a neighbor nearby, ask them to check on the pup immediately.”
Once home, owners should check for cuts, scrapes or other injuries and contact their veterinarian if anything seems concerning.
Dr. Annie Valuska, Ph.D., CAAB, Purina pet behaviorist, said owners should also consider whether their dog got into anything unsafe while loose.
Why Is Your Dog Escaping?
Escape attempts have several causes. Owners should consider whether the behavior was triggered by something specific, such as a loud noise, or whether their dog is dealing with boredom, anxiety or discomfort with their current setup.
“Try to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s escape,” Valuska said. “Did something specific trigger that behavior, like a thunderstorm? Is he experiencing separation anxiety? Does he dislike his crate, or did he just get bored?”
Understanding the reason behind the behavior can help owners choose the right solution. A dog escaping because they are anxious may need a different approach than a dog who simply needs more mental stimulation.
Meaghan believes Sammy’s escape attempts stem from separation anxiety. Although he adjusted well to crate training after she brought him home as a foster in January, she noticed a change a few months later once he had fully decompressed after leaving animal control.
“Once he decided the cat and I were his crew, he was over it,” she said. “We’re his pack. He does not like being separated.”
If owners suspect anxiety, separation distress or noise phobias, Valuska recommends working with a veterinarian or credentialed behaviorist for guidance.
Help Your Dog Enjoy the Crate
For dogs who dislike their crate, experts say, the goal should be to change how they view the space.
A crate should be a safe, comfortable area where a dog wants to spend time—not somewhere they feel trapped.
“I encourage new puppy owners to view the crate positively,” Lobos said. “Feed them in there, have them sleep in there, sit in front of the kennel with the door open and play little games or teach obedience skills in there.”
Owners can build positive associations by pairing crate time with treats, meals and other things their dog enjoys.
“Think of it as a teenager and their bedroom,” Lobos said. “We want them to see their kennel as their safe place.”
Meaghan made the crate part of Sammy’s routine, rewarding him with treats and covering it with a blanket to make it feel cozy. But once he began pulling the blanket through the crate, she knew she needed a different approach.
Meaghan attempted to leave him alone in her room with the door closed, but that proved unsuccessful. She learned Sammy was most comfortable when he could stay with her cat, and since giving him free roam, he hasn’t had any issues.
If a dog continues struggling with a crate, Valuska said, owners may need to try a different type of containment, such as another crate style, playpen or fully pet-proofed area of the home.
Whatever option owners choose, dogs should be introduced to it gradually and rewarded for calm behavior.
Choose a Secure Setup
Some dogs are simply more determined than others, and a standard crate may not be enough for a true escape artist.
Lobos said owners can consider sturdier kennel options designed for dogs who are especially strong or persistent. She also noted that if replacing a crate is not immediately possible, owners can make adjustments to improve security.
“If a new kennel is not an option, you can also reinforce the current wire kennel with zip ties or snug carabiners to reduce the flexibility,” she said.
However, owners should always ensure any modifications do not create new hazards.
One important safety step is removing a dog’s collar before placing them in a kennel, as collars can become caught during an escape attempt.
Provide Enrichment Before Leaving
A dog with pent-up energy may be more likely to spend time searching for an exit.
Before leaving a dog alone, Lobos recommends providing plenty of physical and mental enrichment.
“That may incline your pet to sleep in the kennel while you’re away,” she said.
A walk, game of fetch, training session or nose work activity can help dogs settle before crate time. Owners can also provide enrichment while their dog is contained, such as food puzzles or other feeding activities, as long as the item is safe for that individual dog.
“Some ‘super chewers’ should not be left unsupervised with toys,” Valuska said.
Prevent the Next Escape
While some dogs may always have a little bit of “Houdini” in them, experts say the best way to manage escape behavior is to understand what is driving it.
Meaghan said Sammy has already made progress. While he initially paced and whined whenever she left him with family members, he has become more comfortable over time. She continues to work with a trainer to build his confidence when separated from his people.
By creating a safe environment, choosing the right containment setup and helping dogs feel comfortable when left alone, owners can reduce the chances their pet turns every crate or gate into an escape challenge.
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