Destructive Digging
Digging can be a difficult behavior to stop because it’s a natural behavior for dogs and very enjoyable. There are several reasons why dogs dig. The most common reasons for digging are breed, boredom, loneliness, frustration, and lack of exercise. If your dog is left outside unsupervised, bring him in! Dogs are pack animals and they want to spend time in the company of their pack (that’s you!). When left outside for extended periods of time, they will often begin to bark, jump fences, and yes, dig.
The quickest way to stop digging is to supervise your dog when he’s outside.
You can help to prevent this behavior by giving your dog exercise daily. A dog that is tired from appropriate exercise is less likely to go digging in the yard.
Dogs will dig because they are hot and are making a cool spot for themselves in the dirt. If your dog is digging to find a cool place to lay down you should bring him inside where it is cooler. Dogs may also dig because they smell a critter, typically moles, which may be living underground. In this case, it is going to be very difficult to stop the digging completely. Contact a local pest control prevention to find a safe way to keep them out.
There are dogs that dig simply because they enjoy it. The best way to keep your yard intact is to create space in your yard where your dog can dig, such as a sand box. Bury some of his toys in the dirt, and praise him when he digs in this area. Make a game out of it the first few times by digging with him and praising him in an excited tone of voice. If your dog is digging in your flower garden, you should put up fencing to keep the dog out. Freshly turned soil is too tempting.
Keep in mind that if your dog is digging in the yard and you go flying out of the house to correct that behavior, the dog is probably getting what he wanted in the first place, attention from you. Remember, to your dog, even negative attention is better than none. Try to prevent the behavior before it begins again.
