Does your dog love to dig in the dirt or on their dog bed? Most dogs dig from time to time. From excess energy, to hunting instincts, to anxiety, there are many possible causes for this behavior.
Digging is an adorable instinct, but it can become a problem if it’s in an unwanted area like an outdoor flower bed or on indoor furniture, or if they track mud all over your carpets. We’re here to explore the reasons behind the canine instinct to dig and provide tips for how to stop a dog from digging in unwanted areas.
Why Dogs Dig
Natural Instincts
Dogs inherited the instinct to dig from their evolutionary ancestors. Wild dogs, foxes, and wolves are known to dig into the earth to make their dens, which provide shelter and protection from the elements while they raise their pups. Dogs also have the instinct to dig when they think they smell moles, gophers, insects, or other small prey underground.
Entertainment
Dogs may dig in the ground or on furniture as a way to relieve boredom and get some mental and physical stimulation.
Temperature Control
If a dog is too hot or too cold, digging holes can provide some temperature control for them. During hot days, the deeper layers of the earth are cooler, while digging a hole during the winter can provide some shelter from freezing winds.
Burying Food or Toys
Some dogs will try to safeguard food or precious items by burying them in the dirt or underneath blankets. This is a type of resource guarding, which is a normal instinct for pups.
Anxiety
Digging can be a stress response for anxious dogs or pups that are experiencing sudden life changes. If your dog is digging excessively or showing other signs of stress such as whining, panting, or licking their paws, it could be anxiety.
Attention Seeking
If your dog knows that digging will elicit a response from you (even if it’s negative), they may engage in this behavior to get your attention.
Reproductive Preparation
Female dogs that are in heat or pregnant may dig holes to create a safe place for their future puppies.
Tips for Preventing a Pup from Digging
1. Restrict Access to Digging Spots
Is your dog drawn to specific spots when they have the instinct to dig? It’s common for pups to return to the same areas again and again, like a specific flower bed, patch of lawn, or couch cushion. This can be frustrating when you’re trying to protect your property and belongings. If your dog continues to dig in the same spots, consider blocking their access to these areas.
2. Work on Reducing Stress and Anxiety
If your dog is digging out of stress, then tackling the root cause is the best way to prevent the behavior. Some ways to reduce stress in your dog include:
- Providing more mental stimulation
- Talking to them in a calming voice
- Spending more time together
- Removing triggers from their environment
- Working with a vet or behavioral specialist
3. Train With Positive Reinforcement
Research shows that punishment doesn’t work on dogs. It’s ineffective and can strain your relationship with your furry family member. Praise and positive reinforcement, on the other hand, are great training techniques.
Dogs love to please their humans. When you tell your dog not to dig and they follow your instructions, give them lots of verbal praise, ear scratches, and treats so they know they’ve done a good job. Over time, they’ll learn that you’re proud of them when they fight the urge to dig in unwanted areas.
4. Provide a Designated Area for Digging
Digging is usually a perfectly normal behavior for dogs, especially those that have been bred to burrow, such as miniature schnauzers, dachshunds, terriers, and beagles.
If your dog is simply digging for fun or out of instinct, it can be helpful to provide them with a designated spot in your yard where they can dig to their heart's content. You can even bury some toys or treats in this area to provide them with extra stimulation.
5. Keep Your Home Cool
If your dog is overheated, they may create unwanted holes in your yard to cool down. To prevent this, be sure to keep your house at a comfortable temperature. The ideal temperature for your dog will depend on their breed and coat, but if they are panting excessively or drinking a lot of water, you may want to turn the air down or set up some fans.
6. Increase Exercise, Socialization, and Mental Enrichment
Boredom can be a main reason why dogs act out or get into trouble. In many cases, dogs that dig might just need a bit more stimulation and playtime. Try taking your pup on more frequent walks, taking them to a dog park to make some friends, or purchasing some enriching puzzle toys.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to stop your dog from digging in unwanted areas. But digging is a natural and normal behavior, and it’s often a sign they’re looking for a chance to play or get some attention from you.
Rather than trying to prevent your dog from digging altogether, try to redirect their behaviors so they dig in appropriate places and have other ways to play and get their excess energy out.