Understanding Why Your Dog Digs and How to Manage It

If your garden is beginning to resemble a construction site, you're not alone! Many dogs have a natural tendency to dig, and understanding the reasons behind this behaviour can help you manage it more effectively. Dogs dig for various reasons, such as searching for or hiding food, creating a cool place to rest, entertainment, or even out of anxiety.

Here are some tips to help you reduce your dog or puppy’s digging habits:

• Establish a Regular Exercise Routine: Make sure your dog gets sufficient exercise, such as a daily walk, to help reduce boredom and excess energy.
• Protect Attractive Areas: Freshly dug garden beds and new plants can be particularly appealing for dogs to dig in. If possible, use barriers or fencing to protect these areas.
• Provide Shady Resting Spots: Dogs may dig to create a cooler place to lie down. Ensure your garden offers shaded areas throughout the day. If your dog loves water, consider getting a small children's plastic pool. Partially fill it with water to serve as a large water bowl, and let them play, splash, or rest in it.
• Use Commands and Positive Reinforcement: If you catch your dog digging, use a command like “off” and reward them when they stop. Avoid punishing them after the fact; they won't connect the punishment with the digging.
• Offer Alternative Activities: If your dog digs out of boredom, introduce engaging activities like toys or games. Kong toys and treat-dispensing balls are great options for feeding, as they can be stuffed with treats or frozen food to occupy your dog longer. You can also create a scent trail with gravy or hide treats around the garden for them to find.
• Try Repellents and Barriers: Repellent sprays may work in certain situations but might have limited effectiveness. Alternatively, designate a special digging spot, such as a children’s sandpit. Encourage your dog to dig there by hiding toys or treats in the sand.
• Tailor Solutions to Your Dog’s Breed: Different breeds have unique traits, and understanding these can help you manage digging behaviour more effectively.

Customising Your Approach Based on Breed Characteristics

Every dog breed has unique traits and tendencies, and understanding these can make a big difference in managing digging behaviour. Some dogs rarely dig, while others, such as terriers, are naturally inclined to do so.

Why Breed Matters:

Understanding your dog's breed characteristics helps anticipate their behaviour and tailor your training methods:

• Predict Their Instincts: Breeds are often developed for specific tasks that influence their behaviours. For example, terriers were bred to hunt rodents, which involved digging to flush out prey. Knowing this can help you understand why your terrier loves to dig.
• Adapt Your Training: Once you know your dog’s breed tendencies, you can adapt your training accordingly. If your dog is a natural digger, it's unrealistic to expect them to stop completely. Instead, focus on redirecting their digging to acceptable locations.

Training Tips for Different Breeds:

• Terriers and Diggers: Terriers are notorious diggers. Consider creating a specific digging area with soft soil or sand in your garden. Reward them for digging in this spot rather than elsewhere.
• Guardian Breeds: Dogs like German Shepherds or Great Pyrenees often dig to create cool, comfortable spots while keeping watch. Provide shaded areas or a comfortable kennel for them to relax.
• Sighthounds and the Chase: Breeds like Greyhounds or Whippets may dig out of boredom or frustration. Activities such as fetch or lure coursing can mimic their hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation.
• Working Breeds: Energetic and intelligent breeds, such as Border Collies or Australian Shepherds, need plenty of mental and physical engagement. Puzzle toys and obedience training can help divert their energy from digging.

Remember, breed tendencies are just one factor; each dog is unique. Some dogs may not fit their breed's typical behaviour, while others may display it more strongly. The key is patience, consistency, and a good understanding of your dog's individual personality and needs.