Ever found your dog digging and destroying your beautiful lawn and wondered why dogs dig holes? There are various reasons for your pooch’s digging behaviour. But, is it alright to let them continue with this habit? Not really. From ruining the magnificent looks of your flower beds and lawn to causing health issues to your canine, there are several reasons to discourage your furry buddy from continuing this destructive behaviour.

In this article, we will list out a few reasons for dogs’ digging behaviour and provide solutions to stop them from digging.

Reasons why dogs dig holes

Each dog is different and so is the reason for their digging behaviour. To stop your pooch from digging up your lawn, it is important to first know the reason behind their behaviour. We have listed the most common reasons to help you know what is actually troubling your furry friend.

• Hunting urge

  Dogs have a natural hunting instinct. If they sense worms or rodents underground, they may start digging holes to catch them. Digging can be random in this case and you may find your canine sniffing a lot around the dirt.

• Stress or anxiety

  If your fur baby spends a lot of time alone on the lawn while you are not around, they may feel separation anxiety. They may also feel stressed due to sudden changes in the environment. This leads to digging behaviour.

• To escape

  Dogs tend to dig to find their way out if they feel threatened and unsafe. Digging can be your canine’s attempt to find you or escape the situation and be safe on the other side of the fence.

• For entertainment

  Different dog breeds have different temperaments. If your pooch belongs to a breed that is super-energetic, they may have pent-up energy due to insufficient exercise. So, they may dig holes just to avoid boredom and keep themselves entertained.

How to stop dogs from digging

Here are the six most effective solutions to help you stop your dog from digging:

1. Provide adequate exercise

Dogs are playful by nature and love to live an active life. Besides, certain dog breeds are more energetic and require more exercise. Dogs often dig holes to spend their unutilised energy. To stop your canine companion from digging, channel their energy in physical exercise, take them out for walks, and involve them in outdoor games.

2. Remove the stressors

For the digging behaviour of your stressed or anxious pooch, find out the source of stress and get rid of it. If it is separation anxiety, increase your fur baby’s people time. In case of a change in place, spend quality time with your furry friend and provide a safe area at the new place for good sleep and rest.

3. Keep dogs engaged and entertained

A bored dog often gets involved in excessive digging. If you are going to spend a long time away from your pet due to work requirements, it is a good idea to provide toys and puzzle games to them in order to provide mental stimulation and keep them occupied and entertained while you are not around.

4. Ensure protection

Dogs use the dug hole as a hiding place or dig the edges of the lawn to escape the place. If it is the weather due to which they are trying to escape, provide them a shaded area and enough water to drink to keep them warm or cool as per the season. Use chicken wire fences and place large rocks at the edges of the lawn to discourage your canine from digging and injuring themselves.

5. Provide a dedicated digging zone

Well, of course, we are here to discuss how to stop a dog from digging. But, dogs of certain breeds have digging as a trait and it is difficult to stop them from digging altogether. It is better instead to provide your furry companion a designated place to dig up. Train your pooch to not dig any other area than the one you have provided with the help of basic commands like ‘stop’ or ‘no dig’.

6. Use dog-friendly deterrents

You can use dog-friendly deterrents to discourage your pet from digging up holes in your backyard. Dogs dislike certain smells, like citrus. Plant citrus-smelling plants or use deterrent sprays having citrus fragrance to deter your furry buddy from digging the areas you do not want them to ruin.

Parting notes

Dogs are men’s best friends and having a furry bundle of joy in the house is a happiness no pet lover can deny. But for a comfortable and happy co-living, it is important to train your dog and take action to control their destructive behaviour. No matter how natural it is for dogs to dig, it is a trait no one finds cute. With the help of simple solutions described in this blog, you can stop your furry companion from digging and ensure their well-being along with your comfort. For any queries, Consult our Veterinarian.