There are several reasons leading a dog to becoming a back
yard excavator. Sometimes it’s their breed: Northern breeds are avid diggers,
instincts telling them to dig to get away from the heat. Or terriers digging to
get those varmints. Suburban varmints are rabbits, squirrels, moles—oh my!
Sometimes dogs have an unfulfilled life, are bored and give
themselves the job of landscaper or escape artist. Yes, you have a “nice back
yard,” however that’s not enough for dogs. They need to be walked daily, sometimes
long walks—check out the correct distance for your dog’s breed and age. Dogs
need to be mentally stimulated by taking them out into the world. Maybe you can
start a dog training class or visit the local dog park, or better yet—all of
the above!
HOLES HOLES EVERYWHERE!
Once your yard has holes, don't repair the holes with your
dog around. If your dog started digging after watching you gardening…that might
be part of the problem. Your dog is part monkey: Monkey see…
Refill the holes with dirt and cover the patched holes
with wet straw or hay. There’s something about the smell that tends to keep
dogs away. You might have to reapply the straw/hay if it blows away.
Create a special place for your dog to dig. Instead of a sandbox, a "dig box." This boundary
lets your dog know that this area has the seal of approval for all his digging
needs. You can start the new digging habit in the digging box by burying a
bully stick, treat-filled Kong or other treats that get your dog motivated to dig.
Once he starts—praise the behavior.
If your dog continues to dig where he shouldn’t, don’t give
him attention by punishing him—it hasn’t worked and he’s enjoyed the attention he’s
gotten from you, even though it’s negative attention. When he’s digging in the
wrong place—merely call him over to the digging box in an excited, happy voice
and get him to dig there instead. He will be rewarded time and time again with
your attention whenever he’s digging in
the right place. Also, if you “catch” him digging in the digging box, make
sure to praise him and give him lots of attention.
Dig?
