Dogs are generally very good at digging. Some breeds, like terriers were even bred for digging. However, some dogs dig for completely different reasons. A dog may dig out of boredom or separation anxiety; he may dig because he needs an outlet for his energy; he may dig because he’s looking for prey; and he may dig because he longs for your attention and company.
To prevent your dog from digging, in inappropriate places, consider the following tips:
Set up a doggie sandbox. You can try to redirect your dog’s digging energy away from your petunias and roses by setting up a regular sandbox for him to dig into. If you catch your dog digging where he shouldn’t , interrupt the digging with a loud sound and tell him firmly “no digging”. Bring your dog to his sandbox and encourage him to dig there. Let him see you bury a few of his toys in the sandbox. Encourage him to play in the sandbox by praising him whenever he digs in it instead of the flower beds and the lawn.
Make the unacceptable digging spots unappealing. Place large, heavy rocks on the ground where he usually digs. This will make it unattractive for any dedicated excavator. Conversely, make the sandbox appealing by hiding a new toy in it every time he comes to play in it.
- Make your dog’s life less boring. Make sure that your dog gets sufficient exercise so that he can channel his pent up energy towards something more productive than digging. Walk him at least twice a day; enroll him in an obedience class; play Frisbee or ball with him; and always make sure there are toys around for him to play with. Activities and exercises are also great if you want to prevent attention-seeking behavior as well as attempts at escaping by digging under the fence. Enjoy bonding with your dog through grooming too. PawGanics offers a number of natural pet supplies and pet products which will allow your pet to enjoy an all- natural pet care.
- Make sure that your dog is comfortable. Hot weather may encourage digging because cool, dug earth can provide comfort. Always make sure your dog has a shade to rest under when he feels hot and make drinking water available to him at all times.
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