Although digging is a natural instinct for your four-legged friend, it can be incredibly destructive. As such, it is crucial that owners understand how to stop dogs from digging. This article gives you some simple strategies to protect your yard by understanding how to stop your dog from digging holes in your yard..
8 Strategies On How to Stop Dogs From Digging
If your loveable pet is driving you crazy by turning your pristine yard into a moon-like surface of craters and holes, perhaps it is time to take some action. Let’s look at eight simple strategies you can use to prevent dogs from digging.
1. Give your pet plenty of exercise and stimulation.
You might be asking yourself “why do dogs dig?” One of the main reasons is due to boredom. Ultimately, a tired dog is a content dog, so you should ensure you are giving your pet plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Ideally, your pet will have at least one daily walk. You might also consider providing them with plenty of interactive toys, so they can keep themselves entertained. Also, consider giving them regular structured training. You’ll soon find your dog’s energies are channeled more positively and away from creating a lunar landscape of your yard.
2. Establish a designated digging area.
Even though you are giving your dog regular exercise and stimulation, they still might have the urge to dig holes in your yard. One strategy to try in this situation is to establish a designated digging area.
The most suitable area is a spot where your dog’s digging will have minimal disruption and be as inconspicuous as possible. For best results with this strategy, give your pet plenty of encouragement to use the designated area. Also, be sure to reward them with praise and treats when they do as this will reinforce the behavior you want from them.
3. Supervise and correct your dog.
When considering how to stop your dog from digging, you must be prepared to quickly correct their behavior. To do this, you will need to catch them in the act so they understand how they’ve gone wrong. Consequently, you’ll need to spend time supervising them until they commit their dastardly digging activities.
When you observe them about to dig, gently redirect your dog’s focus to a more suitable activity or one of their favorite toys. You should avoid scolding them as this could confuse them. Immediate and positive redirection will ultimately encourage your dog to stop digging your yard.
4. Block off areas of your yard.
If your dog is digging holes in specific areas of your yard, you might find denying them access is your best option. Of course, you may not want to erect a sturdy dog fence as this could be expensive. Indeed, dog fences might just encourage your pet to dig a hole underneath.
Alternatively, consider creating barriers by using rocks, plants, or planters in areas where your dog likes to dig. Blocking these spots might encourage you pet to go to its designated digging area.
5. Bury your dog’s waste.
Dogs often dig to cover their waste, and this is a behavior that canines do in the wild. For how to stop dogs digging holes for their waste, clean it up quickly. Managing the situation in this way can help your pet kick its digging habit.
6. Use training and strict commands.
Teaching your dog clear commands, such as “leave it!” or “stop digging!” can help train them into stopping their digging. Remember to give them plenty of praise and reward them with treats when they adhere to your commands. With time, they’ll develop the new behavior you expect from them.
7. Provide sufficient shelter and shade.
Dogs will often dig to find cooler soil during warm weather. To dissuade them from this habit, you can provide sufficient shade and shelter. Giving your pet a more comfortable living environment will reduce their desire to dig for cooler soil.
8. Seek professional advice.
Even if you’ve adopted the previous seven measures outlined above, your dog’s digging habit might persist. In this situation you may consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer or behavioral therapist. These experts can have a significant impact in improving your dog’s habits.
Conclusion
You’ll find that patience and consistency are the cornerstones of successfully curbing your dog’s digging habit. By combining exercise, positive reinforcement, establishing designated digging areas, and incorporating appropriate deterrents, you’ll help your furry friend break the digging cycle. Remember that understanding your dog’s needs and motivations is key to how to stop dogs from digging. With dedication and a persistent approach, you can guide your dog toward becoming a well-behaved and content member of your household, and keep your yard free of holes.