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Stop your dog from digging
The Big Dig
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Doggie Etiquette
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The Big Dig
I have a mixed breed dog, and he likes to dig holes in our yard. Do you have any ideas on how stop my dog's digging?
Barb
Strange, but True
This sounds awful, but it works. Collect as much of Fido's do-do as you can get in a plastic bag. Wherever he digs, plant it. He won't dig in his own droppings, and it will do dual duty by enriching the soil. Of course, exercise and less boredom for him also helps.
Shered
Dog Digging Hole photo from Shutterstock
Keep Doggie's Nails Trimmed
When I trim the toenails of our dogs, the digging seems to stop. And when it's muddy I only let them outside for a few minutes to potty and then bring them right back in. You might have to spend a few minutes out there with your dog, and when the digging starts, reprimand with a firm voice and then praise when he/she leaves that location.
M in KC
Construct a Sandbox
Construct a small child's sandbox and fill it with sand, as your dog is trying to cool off by digging in the cool dirt. A covered sandbox opened up when your dog is in the yard is just the ticket. You should have the camera on hand when he jumps in, digs himself into a hole, and covers himself with sand. Precious!
Ginger
Another Sandbox Proponent
My husband is a dog trainer and some dogs are just going to dig, as it's in their nature. We've found a fun solution. People think it's crazy at first, but it works. Give the dog a place to dig. Make him his own sandbox. Bury a few toys, bones or balls to help him get the idea. When you see him digging where he's not supposed to, just stop him and take him over to his sandbox and move some dirt around. Most dogs get the idea fairly quickly.
thebarkingdog in MI
Rover Needs a Job
As an experienced dog owner and trainer, I believe this dog needs a job. No amount of scolding will cure him or her of this behavior. However, giving the dog a job will help. He is most likely digging because he is not mentally stimulated enough or is not given enough exercise. A few walks per day won't cure this.
Try joining an obedience class or agility class. Not only will you bond with your pet, but you will also give him an outlet for all of his creative energies.
Betsey
Two Approaches, One Goal
I've tried two different ways to stop dogs from digging over the years. Both have worked.
- Fill all of the holes with ground pepper. With some dogs, it only takes one snout full of pepper not to dig again.
- Blow up some small balloons, stick them in some of those holes, and then cover them over with a layer of dirt. When the dog starts to dig, the balloon breaks and scares him off.
According to Animal Planet…
I saw a show on Animal Planet where a family's English Mastiff was creating a "trench" in their yard. The solution was to lay down chicken wire under a few inches of topsoil. Apparently, dogs hate the feeling of their nails going over the wire. They also made her a sand "play area" and trained her to dig there if she really wanted to dig.
Big Dog Mom
Beanbag Toss
There was a segment on Susan Powell's show this morning regarding training your dog. They were using a beanbag to get the dog's attention. When he went to do something wrong, they tossed the lightweight beanbag at his rear which stopped him from jumping, etc. Then they praised the dog. Make up several little beanbags and then try this idea. Try using navy beans and some leftover fabric to make the beanbags. It's worth a try!
Barbara
Take the Next Step
- Save on your pet's medications at 1-800-PetMeds
- Daily deals for dogs and their people. Discover chews, toys, treats, and more at up to 75% off at DoggyLoot
If you enjoyed this article you might also want to check out:
- Problem Pet Hair
- Cheaper Dog Chews and Treats
- Buying Pet Meds Online
- Does Your Pampered Pooch Need Special Food?
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