It’s a classic story: You finally have your yard just the way you want it, and your dog turns it into his personal digging area. Before you frantically call a professional dog trainer or behaviorist, here are some simple tips dog owners can use to know what can be done to curb his behavior before having to spend a lot of money on landscaping.
Steps to Stop Your Dog from Digging
Keep them busy
Dogs dig for fun if they are bored or left alone in the yard for long periods. Make sure you maintain his space with plenty of toys and play with him often. You should also walk your dog at least twice a day so that he can spend excess energy on something positive like exercise.
Keep them comfortable
Dogs may also dig holes to keep cool in hot weather or vice versa. If you see your dog lying in the hole he dug, it could be a sign that the bedding is too cold or hot for him to lie down in.
To solve this problem, let your dog inside more often when he faces hot days to let him cool down. You can also make sure your dog has constant access to a non-tip water bowl.
Check for burrowing animals
If your dog is constantly digging in one part of the yard, he may be looking for something you haven’t noticed yet. Dogs, especially terriers, dachshunds, huskies or other dog breeds bred to dig, may try to get to digging animals or insects living in your yard.
The Humane Society suggests periodically looking for signs of these types of small animals and using safe, humane methods to corral them. Wire mesh or deterrents such as cayenne pepper to make your garden and flowerbeds unappealing to invading critters can prove to be an effective strategy.
Have a designated digging area
If all else fails and your dog is a digger at heart, having a designated spot for digging can help modify your dog’s behavior and keep his digging habit controlled. You can cover the dig with dirt or use a sandbox with buried dog toys for your dog to discover. This will help your dog’s mental stimulation and transform your dog’s negative habits into habits that will allow for positive reinforcement and enrichment in his life.
How to Stop Dogs from Digging FAQ
What repels dogs from digging?
Once you’ve created a designated digging area, you can keep your dog from wanting to dig in other parts of your yard by placing large rocks around burrows and fence lines, all while making his digging area cozy.
Should I punish my dog for digging?
You shouldn’t punish your dog for digging. This won’t fix the cause of the behavior and will only make any digging driven by fear or separation anxiety worse.
Are there any natural or homemade remedies to dissuade my dog from digging?
Natural remedies include citrus peels, vinegar, and strong-smelling essential oils. These can be scattered in areas where your dog likes to dig, as he often doesn’t like these smells.
How long does it take to stop a dog from habitually digging?
The answer to this question depends on factors such as your dog’s age, breed, temperament, and the underlying cause of the digging. Some dogs may respond quickly to training and environmental changes, while others may require more time and persistence. One thing is essential: you should remain consistent with your training efforts. If you feel like the digging problem hasn’t been resolved properly, it may be time to seek out a professional dog trainer.