Do Dogs Grow Out of Digging?

While a few might leave their digging days behind as they get older, many won’t — especially if they’re a breed like a terrier, where digging is practically in their DNA. For these natural-born diggers, the behavior is much harder to shake. But even if your dog isn’t likely to outgrow it on their own, there are steps you can take to curb their digging behavior. Here’s what you need to know.

Why do dogs dig

The first thing to figure out when determining if your dog will outgrow their digging — and how to prevent it — is why they’re digging in the first place. Dogs dig for many reasons, from instinct to boredom. The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine shares that some of the most common reasons for this behavior are hunting instincts, genetics, looking to cool off, happiness, burying treasures, feeling bored, trying to escape, and dealing with anxiety.

Tips to stop a dog from digging

When your dog starts digging, pay attention to the when, where, and any other body language they’re showing. Sure, it might feel like they’re just digging random, annoying holes — but these clues can help you figure out why they’re doing it and how to stop it. Once you have a better idea of what’s driving the behavior, you can try these tips to keep your yard intact:

1. Give them more playtime and toys

Some dogs dig out of boredom. Giving them lots of interactive toys, taking them on more walks, and spending more time playing with them can help to relieve their boredom and stop the digging. You can also consider getting another dog to provide companionship or enroll them in doggy daycare.

2. Let them dig

If you have a serious digger, why not lean into it? Build them a sandbox or set up a designated digging zone just for them. Reward them with positive reinforcement and treats to help direct their natural behaviors in a more appropriate place.

3. Don’t leave them outside alone for extended periods

There are many reasons your dog should not be left alone outside for long periods, so let your dog inside. That may be all it takes to stop them from digging.

4. Remove potential prey

If you notice your dog always digs in the same spots, they may be hunting for burrowing animals or insects. If you see signs of animals, call a company that will safely and humanely remove them from your yard. Avoid pesticides or traps that could be dangerous for your pet.

5. Add physical barriers

If the digging is around your fence line, add barriers by burying the fence one to two feet, burying chicken wire along the fence line, or partially burying rocks along the border of the fence.

6. Provide them with a cool and shady spot

If your dog is digging to cool down, create shaded areas with landscaping, set up a kiddie pool, install automatic sprinklers, and add a dog door. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water.

7. Try a natural repellent

If there’s a specific spot that has captured your dog’s interest, make the area less appealing by applying a yard spray repellent like No Dig! or another natural dog repellent.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick, consider enlisting help from an animal trainer who can work with you and your pet to come up with a plan that will work for you.

References

Youngerman, Claire. “Digging in Dogs.” Animal Health Topics / School of Veterinary Medicine, 8 Apr. 2019, healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/canine/why-does-my-dog-dig.

“Dig This: How to Get Your Dog to Stop Digging.” The Humane Society of the United States, 2019, www.humanesociety.org/resources/stop-dogs-digging.