A question about dogs.?

Last year I lost my dog which I owned for about 13 years, and I am now thinking of adopting a new puppy within the next year or so. My last dog was not very bright but very well behaved and obedient, though she had one major problem: escaping. My old dog used to escape, run around the neighborhood and town, and eventually be brought back by a vigilant neighbor, usually narrowly avoiding danger. This was a bad problem for me because I could not catch her, once she got out she'd feel like it was a game and make me chase her. I was wondering if you had any tips for me about correcting this kind of behavior before I try taking in a new dog, theres more traffic in my area now and I really dont want to lose a puppy like that. I know dogs should be kept on leashes or in a fenced area, but like I said once my old dog got free there was no stopping her, how do I correct this type of behavior if it happens? Do I reward them if they come back? Am I supposed to punish if I catch them? Thanks in advance