Many times you see flyers posted in grocery stores and on telephone poles: Lost Dog. This sad story can be changed with some simple steps on the owner's part.

1. Is your dog slipping away to go see other dogs because of mating interest? All pet dogs not used for breeding should be spayed or neutered. Fixed dogs are much less likely to run off. Dogs that are not fixed, and behave perfectly, may well smell something special on the wind one day. However, by taking away the reason for the temptation, their urge level is much lower. In addition, fixed animals are known to be calmer and can even be more responsive to training.

2. Sometimes dogs run away because they don't have enough exercise and interaction. What's going on out there is better than what's going on here! The solution to this is to spend more time with your dog. Your pup needs more walks, more exercise, and more games.

3. Get a fence. No, seriously. Get a fence that is a deterrent to your dog, and be sure that all gates are closed and that the fence is in good repair. Sometimes people who can't add a fence to their property will let their dogs out on very long leads. The dog won't get hurt, and you won't be heartbroken.

You might need to combine some of these ideas with working with a dog behaviorist or trainer. In all cases, it's important to figure out the rationale for running off from the dog's perspective. Once you can determine that, you can work on preventing further escape artist antics.