OBEDIENCE TRAINING 101 GUIDE

Common Reasons Why Dogs Dig
 

• Out of boredom when they’re not getting enough physical and mental stimulation.
   

• Digging up dirt to lay in can keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
   

• They may smell something that’s buried or they may want to bury something.
   

• If they see humans digging (gardening) they may want to join in on the fun.
   

• Fertilizer is very attractive to some dogs.
   

• Some breeds like terriers and labs are instinctually prone to digging.

 

 

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How to Stop Digging

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• The number one way to stop your dog from digging is to supervise them. We have to be there to guide them to make the right decisions.
   

• If you catch them in the act of digging, make a loud noise to interrupt the behavior like a loud clap or “uh-uh” sound. Then redirect them to play with an appropriate toy instead.
   

• Consider giving them an area of the yard where it is ok to dig. A sectioned off part of dirt or a sandbox will do just fine. If you catch them digging somewhere else interrupt the behavior and redirect them to this spot.
   

• Encourage them to dig in this spot by hiding tasting treats or bones for them to find. If they learn they find good things in that spot, that's the spot they'll want to dig in.
   

• Be consistent with your rules. If you deem an area that is ok to dig in then that's the rule and they are never allowed to dig anywhere else.
   

• Provide your dog with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Give them a nice game of fetch, a stuffed chew toy, or a bone to entertain themselves.