Dogs are known for being some of the most loyal creatures on the planet. They are also known for their love of digging. If your dog is constantly digging up your yard, you may be wondering why they are doing it and how you can get them to stop. In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons dogs dig and how to correct the behavior.

Why do dogs dig?

There are a few reasons why your dog may be digging. The first reason is that they are bored. If your dog is left alone in the yard for long periods of time, they may start to dig because they have nothing else to do.

Another reason some dogs dig is to escape. If your dog feels like they are confined or trapped, they may start to dig in an attempt to get out. Some dogs also dig because it’s instinctual. Dogs are natural hunters and diggers, so it’s in their nature to want to bury their food or chase small animals underground.

1. Be Vigilant and Consistent

If you see your dog start to dig, immediately give them a verbal command to stop. If they do not listen, provide a gentle correction with a leash or spray bottle.

If you’re consistent with your corrections, your dog will eventually learn that digging is not allowed.

Remember, it’s important to be vigilant so you can catch your dog in the act and correct their behavior.

If you let them get away with it even once, they’ll think it’s okay to keep doing it.

2. Be Firm but Fair

When you correct your dog for digging, be firm but fair. Yelling or hitting your dog will only make them scared of you and more likely to keep digging.

A gentle leash correction or spray of water is usually enough to get their attention and let them know that what they’re doing is not allowed.

It’s also important to be fair when correcting your dog. If they dig up the entire yard, don’t just punish them for the one hole they’re standing in. Be consistent with your punishments so they know that any time they dig, they will be corrected.

If you are fair and consistent with your corrections, your dog will quickly learn that digging is not allowed and will be less likely to do it in the future.

3. Exercise & Playtime

One of the best ways to keep your dog from digging is to give them plenty of exercise and playtime.

A tired dog is a good dog, and if they’re tired they’ll be less likely to want to dig.

Take them for long walks, runs, or hikes, and make sure they have plenty of toys to play with when they’re in the yard.

If you provide your dog with enough exercise and playtime, they’ll be less likely to want to dig holes in your yard.

4. Try a Natural Repellent

If your dog is digging because they’re bored, a natural repellent may help.

There are a variety of different repellents on the market that can keep your dog away from certain areas of your yard.

Choose a repellent that is safe for both dogs and plants, and apply it to the areas of your yard where you don’t want your dog to dig.

Most repellents are made with ingredients like citronella or lemon, which dogs dislike. This will help keep them away from the area without harming them in any way.

5. Don’t Leave Them Outside Alone for Extended Periods of Time

One of the best ways to prevent your dog from digging is to not leave them alone in the yard for extended periods of time.

If they’re bored, they’re more likely to start digging.

So, make sure you give them plenty of attention and playtime when they’re outside.

And, if you’re going to be gone for a long period of time, put them in a safe area like a crate or kennel. This will prevent them from being able to dig up your entire yard while you’re away.

6. Remove Potential Prey

If your dog is digging to catch rodents or other small animals, removing the potential prey may help.

Keep your yard free of debris and garbage where rodents can hide, and trim back any vegetation that may be providing them with shelter.

You may also want to consider hiring a pest control to safely remove any potential rodents from your yard.

By removing potential prey, you’ll make it less likely for your dog to want to dig in your yard.

7. Add Physical Barriers Near Fences

If your dog is digging to escape their yard, adding physical barriers near the fence may help.

Rocks, chicken wire, or slats can all be used to create a barrier that will make it more difficult for your dog to dig under the fence.

You may also want to consider burying the fencing a few inches underground to make it even more difficult for your dog to escape.

By making it more difficult for your dog to dig under the fence, you’ll reduce the likelihood of them escaping and reduce their motivation to dig.

8. Use a Local Dog Daycare

If you’re gone all day and your dog is left alone, they may start digging out of boredom.

Consider using a local dog daycare to keep your dog entertained while you’re away.

Most daycares provide a variety of activities to keep dogs entertained, including playing with other dogs, going for walks, and playing fetch.

By using a daycare, you can be sure that your dog is being properly cared for while you’re away and they’re less likely to start digging.

Not to mention, they will be tired out when they get home and be less likely to dig up your yard.

Conclusion

Hopefully, these tips will help you figure out why your dog has been digging and how to get them to stop. If you have any other questions or concerns about your dog’s behavior, please consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist. They will be able to help you figure out what is causing your dog to dig and provide you with more specific tips on how to get them to stop. Thank you for reading!