6 Reasons Why Dogs Dig (& How To Stop It)

Is your dog a big digger? Every time I take my two precious pooches to the beach they go crazy digging holes. The photo above is a shot of my little Diego in the middle of a good digging session. While the habit isn’t frustrating to me because my guys only dig in the sand, it would be another story if they were pawing at a home garden or landscaped area.

First things first, dogs digging holes is nothing out of the ordinary. In fact, it’s an instinct-driven habit and is completely normal. That still doesn’t make it any less frustrating for some, I get it! If you want your dog to stop digging holes in your yard, though, you’ll have to figure out why he’s doing it in the first place. Here are some common reasons dogs dig:


1) Entertainment

This is as simple as it gets. Some dogs go to town on the lawn as a way to entertain themselves and beat boredom. After all, digging holes is fun for your dog!

So what can you do? Well, have you ever heard the saying, “A tired dog is a good dog?!” It’s a very true statement! If you notice your dog digging random holes, try taking him for a long walk, playing some games together (like fetch), or giving him enrichment toys and puzzles! It’s always important to make sure your dog is getting enough attention and exercise throughout the day.


2) Trying to Escape Your Yard

Are you noticing your dog only digs along the perimeter of your yard? If so, he’s more than likely trying to get out of your fenced property and escape. Don’t take it personally, though! Your pooch may be trying to explore the world, catch the neighborhood cat, or perhaps he finds the next door dog attractive and is seeking out a mate.

If your pooch is digging these holes when he’s outside and you’re not then it could also be a sign of separation anxiety.


3) Burying His “Treasure”

Whether your dog is outside digging in your new plant bed or inside digging in between the couch cushions, one of the most common reasons dogs dig is to hide their bones, food, and toys from the world! One way that you can avoid this type of digging is to only give your dog food and treats that he will finish right away. You can also build your dog a digging pit and encourage him to bury his items there (instead of under your expensive and well-manicured plants)!


4) Trying to Get Comfortable

Usually, when my dogs dig at the beach it’s because they’re either exploring or looking for a cooler spot to lie down. They’re trying to get to the sand that hasn’t been hit by the strong sun all day. Similarly, dogs often dig in the dirt or in their blankets to create a comfortable den to rest. Dogs instinctively dig a den for safety, so while it may be frustrating they’re just doing what comes naturally to them. To avoid this type of digging, provide your dog with a place to get comfortable – like a cool area, warm area, or a soft bed.


5) Hunting For Small and Underground Animals

Some dog breeds are natural hunters. Even in your backyard, their natural instincts will kick in to hunt prey. In your backyard, they may have seen rabbits, groundhogs, squirrels, or another small animal that they continue to sniff for and dig to find. If this type of digging becomes a problem, set up live tracks to remove these animals in the most humanely way possible.

6 Reasons Dogs Dig

6) They Want a Snack

Similar to how some dogs like to eat grass, others go for soil. Since dogs are pretty selective about the soil they consume, this kind of digging is typically done in the same spot(s) over and over.


What NOT To Do

Always remember that your dog’s digging is a natural instinct. No matter how frustrated you get, do not take your dog back to the area where he previously dug a hole and scold him. Yelling or spanking your pooch won’t get you anywhere because your dog won’t connect the punishment to something he did hours (or even minutes) ago.

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