Eliminate Puppy Digging
People think 2 different ways on whether it is okay for a dog to dig. Some feel it is what dogs do and to be true to his nature, he should be allowed to. Others feel like there are boundaries in their yards the dog needs to learn and they must not be crossed.
I fall right in between – it is a normal part of who a dog is that wants to dig and is therefore okay to allow this occasionally. However, there is not a good explanation why dogs and plants cannot live harmoniously in a yard. They will require some time and teaching by you.
If you are reading this piece, you more than likely are having an issue with a digging dog. Telling you that there are breeds, like Malamutes, Terriers, and Huskies, that are just plain diggers isn’t going to be real helpful. If you are only in the looking stage, this is the kind of information you will want to take into consideration when finding a breed that fits your temperament and lifestyle.
First off, some explanations on why dogs dig.
1. Lack of exercise. Digging is a good way to burn off nervous energy.
2. Boredom. Bored dogs need a job to do, and digging holes can quite often fit the bill.
3. World travelers. Some dogs want to see what is on the other side of the fence. So there digging is a means of escape. These dogs are much harder to train no matter how much working out and jobs you give them.
So how do you stop this dog digging behavior?
Well there are some obvious solutions to the above reasons that they dig. If he’s not getting enough exercise, get more exercise for him. If he’s bored, give him something to do, like playing with you or some toys just for him.
Deter them with their own poop. Yep, dogs do not like to dig where they poop. So move their poop to the area where they are prone to dig. Even if they occasionally eat their own poop, they won’t dig there. (For info on Dogs Eating Poop, see the website below).
You’ve tried everything and he just won’t stop digging – now what? It probably makes sense that he needs to dig. Your job is to find a spot that you can live with and start training him to use that place only. The size of your place doesn’t limit this from working.