Why Do Dogs Dig?
Dogs dig for a variety of reasons, including:
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Boredom or excess energy: A dog left alone too long or under-exercised might start digging just to pass the time.
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Instinct: Certain breeds (like terriers) are hardwired to dig. It’s in their DNA!
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Hunting: If your pup smells something moving underground—like moles or bugs—they might dig to try and catch it.
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Cooling off: In hot weather, dogs may dig to lie in the cooler dirt.
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Comfort or anxiety: Some dogs dig to relieve stress or create a “den” to feel safe.
How to Curb the Digging
1. Exercise More
A tired dog is a happy (and non-digging) dog. Add walks, games of fetch, or agility training to your routine to burn off that extra energy.
2. Offer Mental Stimulation
Try puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, or training sessions to keep their brain busy. Mental enrichment can be just as tiring as physical activity.
3. Designate a Dig Zone
Instead of fighting the instinct, redirect it. Create a spot in your yard where it’s okay to dig. Bury toys or treats there to encourage digging in the right place.
4. Make Off-Limit Areas Unattractive
Use garden fencing, chicken wire just under the surface, or motion-sensor sprinklers to keep dogs out of prized flowerbeds.
5. Address Anxiety
If the digging is new or seems compulsive, your pup might be stressed. Try calming products, a consistent routine, or talk to your vet about solutions.
What Not to Do
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Don’t punish after the fact. Your dog won’t connect the punishment to the digging and it may cause fear or confusion.
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Don’t leave them unsupervised for too long. Dogs are pack animals—being alone too much can lead to all kinds of problem behaviors.
Save Your Yard—and Your Sanity
Digging doesn’t have to be a forever problem. With a little patience, the right tools, and understanding what your dog’s trying to tell you, you can turn your backyard back into a haven (instead of a hazard zone).
Got a digger at home? Share your funniest (or most frustrating) digging moment in the comments—we’ve all been there!
