A digging dog can destroy your yard, track mud and dirt into your house and force you to drop everything to give them a bath. Even worse, if your digging dog is tunneling under a fence to escape, this can place them in danger. If you're fed up with your dog's behavior, keep reading to learn how to stop a dog from digging.
Why Do Dogs Dig Holes?
Understanding why your dog digs is an important step in minimizing this behavior. Here are the most common reasons why dogs dig.
Instinct
Digging is an instinctive behavior dogs inherited from their wolf ancestors, points out the American Kennel Club (AKC). All dogs dig to some extent; it comes as naturally to them as barking or wagging their tails. Even if your dog is not a problem digger, you've most likely seen them "dig" in their bedding or sofa cushions before lying down.
Seeking Prey
Dogs with a high prey drive are likely to dig in order to go after rodents or other small animals they can hear or smell underground. This is especially true of terriers and small hound breeds such as dachshunds, who were bred to hunt rodents and small game.
Comfort
In hot weather, dogs will sometimes dig themselves a spot in the dirt to lie down in and cool off. Larger dogs with thick coats who are bred for colder weather, such as the Siberian husky, are particularly prone to this behavior, says AKC.
Boredom and Anxiety
One of the most common answers to the question of why dogs dig holes is that it's just plain fun. For dogs, digging is a great way to relieve boredom or distract themselves from anxiety, says The Spruce Pets. Often, chronic digging can be a sign that your dog isn't getting enough physical activity or mental stimulation.
Hiding Treasure
Some dogs like to bury treasures, such as a treat or a favorite toy, for safekeeping. Unfortunately, they don't always remember to make a treasure map, which leads to more digging as they search for their hidden cache.
Escape
If your dog feels compelled to leave your yard, tunneling under the fence is usually easier than finding a way over it. Typically, this type of tunneling behavior is prompted by wanting to get to something on the other side of the fence, such as another dog.
Tasty Tips
How To Stop a Dog from Digging
Because digging is so deeply ingrained in dogs, it's unlikely that you'll be able to put a complete stop to it. But you can minimize the behavior and reduce the damage to your yard by following these tips.
Place obstacles and deterrents where your dog likes to dig. This might include burying chicken wire along fences, placing rocks or paving stones in garden beds, or planting bushes around the perimeter of the yard.
If your male dog is an escape artist, having him neutered will reduce his desire to roam.
Designate a spot where it's okay for your pooch to dig. A sandbox can work great for this if your dog likes to dig for fun, suggests Rover.com.
Provide an outdoor bed in a shady spot for dogs who like to dig to cool themselves off. Redirect them to this spot when you catch them digging.
If you have a dog with a strong prey drive, controlling the rodent population in your yard will help reduce their temptation to dig for prey. Avoid using poison, which could end up getting transferred to your pup.
Don't allow your pup to take treats or toys outside if they like to bury them.
Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation to help reduce the drive to dig. High-energy dogs like terriers need at least 30 minutes to an hour a day of activity and exercise, which can include walking and playing games like fetch, says The Spruce.
- While it's not possible to watch your dog every moment, try not to leave them in your yard unsupervised more than absolutely necessary. If your dog is digging to relieve separation anxiety, consider acclimating them to stay in a crate while you're gone, along with interactive toys to keep them occupied.
While it's unlikely that you'll completely dig-proof your dog, you can certainly dig-proof your yard to minimize damage and maximize your dog's safety. By channeling your dog's digging urges into more productive and less destructive activities, you and your pooch will both be happier.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bites
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetables Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Beef Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Beef recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée
Beef & Barley Entrée with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Related articles
What Causes a Heart Murmur in Dogs?
Concerned about a heart murmur in dogs? Learn more about what might be causing it and what you can do to help your dog.
"Why Is My Dog Constipated?" and Other Gastrointestinal Questions
Wondering why your dog is constipated? Or why he has diarrhea? Learn more about these common gastro issues in dogs, and tips for managing them at home.
Knowing the Life Stages of Your Large Dog
Determine the human year equivalent of your large or giant breed dog as their size plays a much larger role in their aging than smaller dogs.
Distemper in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Learn important information pet parents should know about distemper in dogs, including symptoms, how it's diagnosed, treatment options & how to prevent it.
Why Fiber is Important for Your Dog's Health
Learn why fiber is an important part of a dog's diet, including the best sources of fiber, why solubility is key, how fiber can help manage disease & more.
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Velcro Dogs: Managing Your Dog's Clinginess
Velcro Dogs: Managing Your Dog's Clinginess
Cardiomyopathy in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn the basics about cardiomyopathy in dogs, including types of this condition, breeds affected, symptoms dogs might show and how veterinarians treat it.
Why Is My Dog Sitting on Me? Five Possible Reasons
Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Vomiting Blood
Here are three steps to take if you find that your dog is vomiting blood.
Fact or Fiction: Can Dogs Smell Cancer?
Learn about dogs' ability to smell cancer in humans before even traditional screenings, including amazing real life stories demonstrating this ability.
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
Running with Your Dog: 12 Tips For a Successful Race
If you're a runner and a dog parent, consider running a race with your dog! Learn how to get started, from training tips to finding dog-friendly races.
How to Choose the Right Leash, Collar or Harness for Your Dog
Learn important considerations for choosing the right leash, collar or harness for your dog, including factors like their breed, size, age & energy level.
Reading Dog Food Reviews: What You Need to Know
Learn how to tell the difference between trustworthy dog food reviews and those that are unfounded. Use these six criteria for evaluating reviews.
Learn About the Best Dog Breeds for Children
Learn tips for choosing the best dog breed for your children and family, considering things like breed size, energy level, temperament and age.
Does My Dog Like to be Petted?
Does your dog really like to be petted? Learn the best spots to pet a dog, especially for new puppy owners, as well as areas to avoid when petting.
Tips for Socializing an Older Dog
Socializing an older dog is usually more challenging than socializing a puppy. Learn how to overcome the challenges to safely socialize an adult dog.
Dealing with Dog Digestive Problems
Digestive issues are something that every dog owner will face, but learning how to identify how serious his problem is and what to do about it is key.
Dog Food Taste & Types: Does My Dog Like Their Food?
Learn about different types of dog foods, why your dog might actually like certain ones over others and questions to ask your vet about dog food taste.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.