Stop a Dog from Digging Up Your Garden
If you keep finding holes in your backyard, you're probably wondering how to stop a dog from digging up your garden. It's frustrating, messy, and costs both time and money to fix. Worse, it can even become dangerous if your dog is trying to escape, especially if you live near a busy road.
Some dogs dig under fences or gates in an attempt to get out, so it’s important to keep an eye on those spots. But before you can stop the behaviour, you need to figure out why your dog is doing it. According to Gareth Dickinson, an expert trainer at Forever Home Dog Training, there are several reasons dogs dig, and the key to stopping it lies in addressing the root cause.
Why Do Dogs Dig?
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Exploring Their Surroundings
If you’ve just brought home a new dog, they may be exploring their environment. Digging is a natural way for them to get to know the area better, especially with curious puppies. -
The Sensation Feels Good
For some dogs, digging is all about the sensation. According to Gareth, dogs who have never felt dirt under their paws or noses before may find it thrilling and overwhelming. This is especially common in rescue dogs. -
It’s in Their Genetics
Certain breeds are just born to dig. Working breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and German Shepherds have digging instincts rooted in their genes. -
Frustration or Overstimulation
A bored or overstimulated dog without enough outlets for their energy might turn to digging as their way of creating fun. Gareth says that when dogs lack mental or physical stimulation, they often find their own activities, which can lead to unwanted behaviours like digging.
How to Stop a Dog from Digging Up Your Garden
Once you know why your dog is digging, it becomes much easier to stop the behaviour. Here are some of Gareth’s top tips for preventing it.
1. Provide More Physical and Mental Stimulation
A dog who’s getting enough exercise and mental engagement is far less likely to dig. Make sure your dog is going on a variety of walks that provide physical and mental stimulation. Switching up the routes, playing games like hide and seek, and arranging playdates with other dogs are all great ways to keep your dog happy and entertained.
If you're looking for more ideas, check out dog toys that are perfect for engaging your pup.
2. Introduce Enrichment Activities
Enrichment toys like lick mats, Kongs, and puzzle games are fantastic for keeping your dog’s brain engaged. These activities can help redirect their focus from digging to something more rewarding. Keeping your dog mentally busy can help curb their desire to dig.
3. Block Off Problem Areas
If your dog keeps digging in a particular spot, try blocking off that area and redirecting them to an alternative activity. For example, introduce a puzzle toy or a game that will keep their attention away from the digging zone. You can explore some interactive puzzle toys to help.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
If you’re frustrated with your dog’s digging, don’t resort to harsh training methods. Gareth explains that using aversive techniques can make the problem worse by increasing your dog’s fixation on the behaviour. Instead, use positive reinforcement. Redirect your dog with a high-value reward, like one of the best durable dog toys, when they start to dig. This teaches them that good things happen when they stop the unwanted behaviour.
Breeds That Are More Likely to Dig
Certain breeds are more prone to digging due to their genetic makeup. If you have one of the following breeds, you might notice digging is more of a challenge:
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Border Collies
- German Shepherds
Understanding that these breeds have a natural instinct to dig can help you manage the behaviour better. Providing them with the proper outlets for their energy is key.
Final Thoughts: How to Stop Dog Digging
To stop your dog from digging up your garden, the solution lies in keeping them physically active and mentally engaged. Whether it's through varied walks, enrichment toys, or playtime with other dogs, giving your dog a healthy outlet for their energy will reduce their urge to dig. If your dog is digging out of boredom or frustration, try redirecting them to a rewarding activity, and always focus on positive reinforcement.
With these tips, you can keep both your dog and your garden happy.
