Digging is a common yet frustrating behaviour for many dog owners. Whether your dog is tearing up your lawn, digging holes in the garden, or trying to escape under the fence, it can be a difficult habit to break. However, with the right approach, you can manage and reduce your dog's digging tendencies.
In this guide, we’ll explore why dogs dig, how to prevent and stop digging, and safe alternatives to redirect this behaviour. Understanding the reasons behind your dog's digging is the first step to addressing it. Dogs may dig out of boredom, to seek comfort, as part of their natural hunting instincts, due to anxiety, in an attempt to escape, or to bury treasured items.
Boredom and Lack of Exercise
Dogs with excess energy often turn to digging as a way to entertain themselves. Without enough physical activity and mental stimulation, they may start digging simply because they have nothing else to do.
To prevent boredom-related digging, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and engagement. Take them on daily walks, provide interactive playtime, and introduce puzzle toys that challenge their minds. If your dog enjoys socializing, consider doggy day-care or playdates with other dogs to keep them occupied. A tired dog is far less likely to dig out of boredom.
Seeking Comfort or Shelter
Some dogs dig to create a cool resting spot in hot weather or to find warmth during colder months. This is particularly common in breeds with strong denning instincts, such as Huskies and Terriers.
To prevent this type of digging, provide a comfortable and weather-appropriate resting area. Make sure your dog has access to shade and fresh water during summer, and offer a cooling mat if needed. In colder months, provide a warm and insulated shelter to keep them comfortable. When your dog has a better option for regulating their body temperature, they are less likely to dig for relief.
Hunting Instincts
Dogs with strong prey drives, like Jack Russell Terriers and Dachshunds, may dig because they sense burrowing animals such as mice, insects, or lizards beneath the surface.
If your dog is digging to hunt, eliminate the incentive by removing small animals from your yard. Use pet-safe deterrents to discourage pests, and supervise your dog outdoors to redirect their focus when they start digging. Interactive toys and scent-based games can also satisfy their natural hunting instincts without damaging your yard.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs suffering from anxiety, whether due to separation, loud noises, or changes in their environment, may dig as a coping mechanism. This is particularly common if your dog digs near doors, fences, or gates.
To address anxiety-driven digging, focus on reducing stress and creating a calming environment. Avoid leaving your dog alone for long periods, and consider using calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or soothing treats. Training techniques that promote confidence, such as positive reinforcement and desensitization, can also help anxious dogs feel more secure. If your dog's anxiety is severe, consult a veterinarian or professional trainer for further guidance.
Escape Attempts
Some dogs dig in an attempt to escape their yard, especially if they are unneutered males searching for a mate or if they experience confinement anxiety. Dogs who feel the urge to explore beyond the fence may dig at the base of barriers to create an exit route.
To prevent escape digging, reinforce your fence by burying chicken wire or large rocks along the bottom. Installing an "L-footer," which extends outward underground, can also block digging attempts. Additionally, ensure your dog gets enough stimulation and exercise to reduce their desire to roam. For dogs that repeatedly attempt to escape, supervised outdoor time and leash walks may be necessary.
Buried Treasure
Some dogs instinctively dig to bury food, bones, or toys, mimicking the behaviour of their wild ancestors who hid food to consume later. While this behaviour is not necessarily harmful, it can lead to unwanted holes in your yard.
To discourage digging for storage, limit the number of chew toys or bones available at once. Offer long-lasting treats like dental chews or stuffed Kongs that your dog can enjoy without needing to bury them. If your dog continues to dig, redirect the behaviour by creating a designated digging zone where they are allowed to bury items without damaging your entire yard.
Safe Alternatives to Digging
If your dog has a strong natural instinct to dig, it’s often more effective to redirect their behaviour rather than try to eliminate it completely.
One of the best ways to do this is by creating a designated digging area, such as a sandbox filled with loose soil or sand. Bury toys and treats in the designated spot to encourage digging in an appropriate area. Snuffle mats can also be a great alternative, allowing dogs to "forage" for treats in a controlled way.
Additionally, enrichment activities like scent games, agility training, and interactive play can help satisfy your dog’s needs while keeping your yard intact. By providing better alternatives, you can keep your dog engaged and prevent destructive digging.
Digging is a natural behaviour for many dogs, but with patience, consistency, and the right approach, it can be managed. By understanding the reasons behind your dog’s digging and addressing their specific needs, you can significantly reduce this habit.
If you need toys, deterrents, cooling mats, or other products to help prevent digging, visit Woonona Petfoods for expert advice and high-quality pet care solutions.
