Dog behavior Problem, Dog Digging
Dog digging is not an act of sabotage against you or your yard. They dig for a number of reasons that are natural and easy to understand. To stop dogs from digging up your lawn you first need to understand why they dig then take the correct actions to stop it.
Why Dogs Dig
Basically it is to cure boredom or seek entertainment. In some cases it can also be linked to separation anxiety.
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Separation anxiety or left alone for long periods of time can spur digging habits. Your dog wants to be with you and they will do what it takes to come find you.
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Dogs can build up energy from a lack of exercise. Digging is just one outlet for them to release that energy. Puppies will experience this more than adults.
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Nothing to stimulate them. No chew toys or objects to play with can create a boring environment for your dog. They may dig to pass the time.
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Freshly dug soil or plant soil with fertilizer may be attractive for your dog to play in. If they view you or other members of the family digging up soil they could copy those actions.
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Certain breeds of dog have a stronger tendency to dig dirt more than others.
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A hot environment or extreme temperatures may cause a dog to dig. The further down in the ground you dig the cooler the earth temperature.
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Hiding food or bones. This is a natural instinct to hide food from other animals.
How to Stop Dogs From Digging
1 - Provide stimulation for your dog. Plenty of exercise and toys for them to play with. Practice your obedience training commands or play a game of fetch.
2 - Never punish your dog if you only see the hole. Punish the dog if you catch them in the act.
3 - Create a negative association with digging. Spray the dog with water if you catch them in the act.
4 - Train your dog not to have separation anxiety. Click here to check out tips and techniques to reduce your dogs anxiety when you are away.
5 - Remove the type of food or dog bones you find they are burying. Replace them with different dog treats.
6 - Create a positive association with digging in a designated area. Create a sandbox area with loose soil. If you catch your dog digging reprimand them and place them in their new digging area. If they start to dig there, reward them and praise them.
7 - Provide a comforting environment. If temperatures are too hot then let them inside. Provide plenty of water and a nice sheltered area in the shade.
8 - If they are digging to chase a certain animal or insect you may need to remove your yard of the pests. Otherwise it will be hard for the dog to break the habit.
9 - Try using products such as No Dig spray |
The Most Common Dog Behavior Problems
- Dog barking
- Dog separation anxiety
- Dog aggression, aggressive dog towards other animals
- Dog biting, puppy biting
- Dog digging
- Dog chewing, puppy chewing
- Excessive dog peeing, dog urinating