How to reconnect with my missing dog that’s been found?

Dogs that have gone missing may take a while to recognize their owners. You must be calm and control your emotions to avoid startling them. Speak to your dog softly and wait for them to come to you. Once they go near you, check if they have any medical needs.

Can my dog still remember after they go missing?

Generally, most dogs have a short-term memory of around two minutes.

This usually applies to happenings that don't have any emotional relevance to them.

“Oh no - will my dog forget me, then?”

Not necessarily!

Humans remember things using their episodic memory. We can relive memories, events, and any other moment to the last detail.

Dogs, on the other hand, have an associative memory. They remember things based on what they can associate with them. 

An example is when your dog gets excited when you open the door. They become ecstatic because they associate the door opening with walks, plays, and other positive things.

Some dogs also dread car rides because they associate it with going to the vet - something that scares them.

If you and your pup have built a bond with mostly positive memories, their memory of you will last a long time! So, if your dog goes missing and you find them, they might hesitate to get near at first, but they’ll get around in no time.

What to do after I found my dog?

Meeting your lost dog for the first time can be an emotional experience. Who wouldn’t wail out of happiness after finding your beloved friend, right?

However, you need to watch out for things when meeting them again. Here are a few you need to keep in mind.

Stay calm

Dogs feed off of our energy. When you meet your pup for the first time with screaming and crying, they might get startled and avoid you altogether.

We understand that this is an emotional moment, but for the sake of your pup, we suggest you calm yourself down first.

Dogs may also get aggressive if they see you as a threat because of your explosive reaction. However, these are rare and usually subside quickly once they recognize you.

Let them come to you

Offer a treat or their favorite toy when meeting your pup for the first time. This will help them be more comfortable going near you.

If you force yourself to be in their space, your furry friend might not like it and get anxious.

You can also try talking to them in a soft and familiar voice.

Bring them to the vet

Whether your dog has been lost for a day or for a few months, having them checked at the vet is essential to ensure that they’re healthy.

Start by checking your dog’s weight and their skin. Next, you need to have their dental health back its top shape. Then, if your vet suggests it, it’d be best of you administer treatments for internal parasites. There’s a high chance they contracted these pests when they were roaming around outside.