6 Tips On How to Get Your Dog to Stop Digging
Have you ever walked into the yard just to be greeted by a freshly dug hole? For many dog owners, it’s an all-too-common sight.
While digging is a natural behavior for many dogs, it can quickly become a problematic habit. What’s worse, is that it always leaves behind a mess for you to clean up, while the culprit wags his tail and walks away.
The good news is that you can prevent this behavior. It might not be fixed overnight, but it is possible as long as you put some effort into it.
For some tips on how to get your dog to stop digging in the yard, keep reading!
Why Do Dogs Dig In the Yard?
Instinctive Behavior
For their canine ancestors, digging was something that was essential for survival. While modern dogs no longer need to dig to survive, many will still do it as it’s ingrained in their DNA.
Certain breeds are also more prone to digging due to their genetic history.
Take dachshunds, for example, they were originally bred to hunt badgers and other rodents by burrowing underground. This inherited nature makes them much more likely to dig compared to other dogs.
Boredom
Bored dogs will often find ways to entertain themselves and that may mean digging a hole in the yard – it’s just a way for them to pass the time.
Some may even see it as a ‘game’, especially if they’ve done it before and they know that it will get them attention from their owners.
Others may just want to dig out of the yard to go exploring.
Burying Food or Toys
It’s not uncommon for dogs to bury their favorite bones or toys to keep them safe. It’s similar to how their ancestors used to hide food from predators.
While some dogs will go back for the items within a few hours, others may leave them there for a few days.
Some dogs will even forget about them altogether until they ‘rediscover’ them during a subsequent digging session.
6 Tips on How to Get Your Dog to Stop Digging
1. Provide Them With Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise every day. Take them for regular walks or bring them to the dog park so they can burn off some of their excess energy.
Providing them with mental stimulation is also important. I’ll keep them occupied so they won’t have time to think about digging holes. It’s also a great way for them to relieve stress and have some fun.
For example, you can teach them new tricks or give them a puzzle toy to play with.
If you know they’ll be home alone, give them something that will tire them out or enroll them in doggy daycare.
2. Create a Designated Digging Area
Set up a sandbox where your dog can dig to their heart’s desire. If they’re hesitant about using the specific area, try burying some of their toys or treats – that can help encourage them to use the new space.
When they dig in the designated spot, give them a treat. You want them to know that that’s what they’re supposed to do and that it’s okay to dig there.
3. Supervise and Redirect Their Behavior
Keep an eye on your dog when they’re outside. If you see them starting to dig, redirect their behavior. The easiest way to do this is by using a toy or treat.
Give them a gentle verbal cue such as a ‘uh-uh’ or ‘no’ and offer them a ‘high value’ toy or treat instead. As soon as they take it, praise them. You want to reinforce the positive behavior.
Do this every time your dog tries to dig and they’ll eventually learn what’s expected of them.
Never scold your dog even if you catch them digging as that will only teach them to be afraid of you.
4. Eliminate Small Animals
Eliminating small animals can help if your dog is digging to hunt. You can usually tell if they are digging repeatedly in one area, often near trees, sniffing the ground continuously, or pawing at holes or gaps.
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of animals, you can use humane deterrents to discourage them from entering your yard. For example, you can plant lavender or mint, which will naturally repel rodents.
Filling any holes and burrows with dirt or gravel will also discourage them from returning.
Avoid using harmful chemicals or traps as they may harm your dog and other wildlife.
5. Modify the Environment
You can prevent your dog from digging by making the problem areas less accessible. For example, you can use physical barriers such as fencing or chicken wire to cover the spots where they like to dig.
Garden mesh is another option. It’ll keep your pup out of the flower beds but will still let bees and other pollinators go through.
You can also deter them from digging by placing hardscaping materials such as mulch or large rocks over their favorite digging spots.
Watering the soil can help as well as most dogs will not want to get their paws wet and messy.
6. Address Underlying Issues
Some dogs may dig because they’re stressed, frustrated or anxious. Addressing the root cause will make it less likely for them to make a mess in the yard.
For example, if your dog is stressed due to a change in route, try reassuring them by creating a calm environment.
Make sure they have a safe space in the house with their favorite bed and toys and give them something with your scent, which will help them feel more secure.
For dogs with separation anxiety, take the time to desensitize them. Start by leaving for a few seconds then gradually increase the time as your pup becomes more comfortable.
Don’t forget to praise and reward them with a treat when they stay calm – you want them to associate calmness with good things.
