When it comes to digging, I am actually one of the few dog owners that find it endearing. I mean what good is a pair of paws, if you can’t sink them deep into the soil. However, I know that I am completely biased on this since I had a dog that loved to dig on command and would only dig on command.
However, there are times when digging can become destructive and this is the type of digging that should be corrected or you end up with large holes in your yard and gardens that are completely torn up. One thing that I always recommend to all dog owners is to find what level of digging you are comfortable with. If you are happy letting your dog dig in one section of the yard, then this is what we will work with. Redirecting your dog’s digging is actually one of the best ways to deal with the problem and it is usually one of the most successful ways to stop dog digging.
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Before you try to stop dog digging however, you should be aware of some of the reasons why dogs dig. These are the following:
Breed Disposition: Did you know that there are dog breeds that are known as “Earth Dogs”. It’s true and many “earth dogs” are among the terrier breeds. In fact, almost all terrier breeds were used to chase prey into burrows at one time or another. This meant the dog had to dig to get down with the prey and this has created a natural instinct to dig in these breeds. If your dog is an “earth dog”, your going to have a digger, and a harder time trying to stop dog digging.
Boredom: As you can tell, boredom seems to be a key factor in why dogs do certain behaviors. Many times your dog may dig simply because he is bored when he is out in the yard by himself. Instead of leaving him outside on his own, it may be better to go outside with him and give him his exercise.
For escape: If a dog is digging along a fence line, he may be digging to escape the yard. Sometimes this is actually natural for some breeds but in many cases, it could be because your dog is intact. If he is, the best way to correct digging for escape is to have him spayed or neutered.
To cool off: On hot summer days, your dog may be digging in cool, moist soil as a way to cool down. Make sure you bring your dog inside during the heat of the day and he will be less likely to find a cool spot right in your flower garden.
To save things: We have all seen the cartoon where the dog buries the bone and it isn’t that far from reality. Some dogs just love to bury things so they can save them and they delight in finding things again in the yard.
It feels good: Lastly, a dog may dig simply because it feels or smells good. Gardeners use many different wonderful smelling manures and mulches and dogs love to dig it up. In addition, that soil is cool on the paws and feels wonderful.
Now that you know some of the reasons as to why your dog might be digging, its time to learn how to actually stop dog digging, which you will find in our next article: How to Stop Dog Digging – Part Two
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