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How do I get my dogs to stop digging?

Urgency:Need to know

Category: Behavior & Training

Asked by: Jessica H. (jessicat87) 6 months ago

My dogs dig in the backyard a lot. I try to cover them back up but most of the dirt is spread out in the grass around the hole. Does anyone have any ideas?

Answers from Zootooers

5 answers(s) found.

Answered by Joanna (Chancelynn2002) 5 months ago

Sorry, I forgot to add this other important fact: It is summer, and since dogs do not have sweat glands, they seek any way possible to keep cool. Digging below the surface brings forth cool dirt that they can stretch out on. My farm dogs used to burrow under the porch, up to a foot deep, to cool off June through August.

Best of luck to you and your dog!

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Answered by Joanna (Chancelynn2002) 5 months ago

If your dog likes to dig - give him somewhere to dig! Really! Make your dog a sandbox and let him go to town. Bury some "treasures" - bones, extra-tasty treats that only he gets to find, toys, whatever it takes. If your dog has a designated area that's his own territory, and there are goodies and things to do there, he will be far less likely to mess with the rest of your yard. You also have to interrupt him when he starts digging around the yard and lead him back to "his" spot, making a big deal over how special and attractive his sandbox is.

It's nearly impossible to make a dog quit digging unless you use force or an electric collar. Needless to say, those aren't acceptable answers to me. It's in their blood, and an output of energy that is as natural as breathing or eating. Remember - a tired dog is a dog that is calm and happy. Walk your dog at least twice a day for a few miles and you'll see a big improvement in his activeness.

If your dog's a female and of breeding age, be aware she may be "in the family way" and is trying to nest. Perhaps have her checked to be sure you won't be surprised in a few weeks.

Best of luck to you and your dog!

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Answered by Marta J. (2pitpuppies) 5 months ago

The number one reason for digging is boredom. He's using digging to vent his pent up energy and frustration at being cooped up with nothing better to do. I know people think gee he's got all this room to play why is he bored. You sit in an room by yourself all day with nothing to do day after day and see how long it take you to want to rip up something. Walking him to drain energy is a most for at least an hour a day. A dog also needs mental stimulation. He needs different sights, sounds and smells. Most breeds of dog were meant to have jobs. They need to do something. Also see if you have a dog park he can go to or doggie day care so he can interact and play with other dogs. You can use a treatmill also to help drain energy. A tired dog is a good dog.

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i fell in the mud really

Answered by S H. (luvhuskies2) 5 months ago

If the hole is not close to a tree or planting, try putting some of there dog poop in the hole and then fill it back up, they typically will not dig in there poop. i got huskies and they love to dig and this has seemed to work.

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Answered by Jill R. (DocJill) 5 months ago

Training! It may be intensive and time consuming, but basic training and getting your pet to respond to your commands is the way to make your pet more obedient. Then, if you see him digging or doing something else that is bad, you can give him a command to stop.

Unfortunately, there are no simple solutions other than leash walking only.

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