Stop your Dog from Digging

Do you have a digger amongst you? A digging dog can be annoying, but for some dogs, it is their natural predisposition. Some dogs were breed just for that reason such as Staffy or Cairn’s. However, not all dogs with a predisposition to dig will dig, and not all dogs who don’t have that predisposition won’t dig.

Here are some strategies that you can use to help prevent or eliminate the problem.

Pick a section of your yard that it is okay for your dog to dig in. Install a large sand/dirt box and hide bones or whatnot in it to encourage your dog to only dig in that area. When your dog wanders from the location to dig in another spot harshly tell your dog no and move him/her back to the designated area. If you were not watching your dog while it was outdoors and it dug in a spot it was not allowed to, it is too late to reprimand them. You have to keep a diligent watch until you see your dog is well versed in where he or she can and cannot dig.

Some dogs dig to reach cooler grounds to lie down and cool off. If you notice your dog is digging to reach cool dirt and laying it, then you need to provide your dog areas in the yard where it can find relief from heat. Keep ample fresh cool water available for your dog. A small kid’s swimming pool makes for a great spot for your dog to take a quick dip and cool off. Make sure there are plenty of shade trees in your yard as well. If you cannot provide your dog with these options to cool off when needed, keep your dog inside with air during hot spells.

To keep your dog from digging in flowerbeds and gardens you can scatter a layer of small rocks on the ground. These feel uncomfortable to your dog’s paws and deter their digging. You can also spread a layer of ground pepper around your flowerbeds and garden. However, if they are of any size this can become costly and will have to be done several times until your dog is no longer drawn to those areas. Every time it rains, the application will have to be redone as well. A more effective solution is to place mesh chicken wire around your plants and the earth around them. However, aesthetically, it can ruin the appeal to a flower/garden bed. Another option is to scatter your dog’s feces ion the flower/garden bed. While doing your daily pooper scooper duty, instead of bagging and tossing, put it in your flower/garden beds. Dogs may like to eat poop on occasion, but they do not like to dig where poop lies. Go figure!

Some dogs dig out of boredom. Can you figure out how to deter that behavior? Right - keep them entertained and exercised.

Lastly, you can always prevent your dog access to your yard or area you do not want them digging in by installing fence. However if you choose this option make sure you provide alternative opportunities to get out and run and play.


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