Why do dogs run away from home?

Common reasons dogs run away include seeking a mate, chasing prey, looking for their owner, loneliness, being frightened, getting lost, or sensing their own death.

They are especially likely to leave during the heat cycle, when they urgently want to find a mate, so the owner should watch their behavior closely then to avoid accidents.

Also, if a dog is kept indoors long-term with little companionship, it may feel lonely and run off to find friends.