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How to Stop Your Dog from Digging Under the Fence
As you see dirt flying in all directions when you glance out the window, your heart sinks. In the backyard, your dog is having a fantastic time digging yet another hole. When this occurs, it's vital to keep in mind that while your dog might view a yard full with craters as the ideal playtime, it can be your greatest landscaping nightmare. Many dogs may learn to control their want to dig, but it will take time and persistence to stop the behavior. Continue reading for advice on how to stop a dog from digging so you can restore the attractiveness of your yard.
My dog keeps digging holes, why?
Finding out why your dog is digging holes might help you tackle the issue. Dogs dig holes for a variety of reasons. Let's examine the most prevalent causes of dog digging in backyards and what you can do to prevent it.
Your dog is digging a tunnel out of the yard
Of course, your dog may be digging to get away, which is a frequent explanation. Although he may notice other dogs or animals outside the yard or just desire to travel, this does not always mean that he is unhappy at home.
If your dog has not had neutering or spaying, this is a typical cause of digging activity. When looking for a mate, unfixed dogs will be drawn to other canines.
To reach a female dog in heat, some male dogs have even been known to jump through windows. Furthermore, unneutered male dogs account for 70–76% of dog attacks. Your "intact" dog fleeing your yard might be a serious liability for you.
If your dog has separation anxiety, this is another frequent cause of trying to run away. Many dogs that are closely bonded to their owners find it challenging to be away, and they may experience a number of signs of separation anxiety when you leave.
Digging is a great way to bury treasures
In the wild, wolves bury food they can't consume right away to keep scavengers away. Some dogs may bury toys or bones in the yard because they have inherited this tendency.
What you can do: The idea is to offer your dog fewer toys or bones so he won't have extras to conceal. Don't allow your dog to bring toys into the yard, and if he chews on a bone outside, take it away when he gets bored to prevent him from burying it.
Some breeds are diggers by nature
Digging is an innate activity that dates back to the wild ancestors of our dogs. A lot of hunting breeds, including terriers, beagles, and dachshunds, are developed to dig their prey out of their burrows.
What you can do: To satisfy your dog's demand for digging, behaviorists from the Humane Society of the United States advise offering a sandbox. In order to draw him to his new playground, bury a bone in the sand. Say "no digging" and lead him to the sandbox if you see him digging somewhere else. His previous digging locations can be made unsightly by temporarily covering them with pebbles or mesh wire.
Dogs who dig can cool down
Does your dog often sleep in the depression he has dug out of a hole during the summer? clever boy Your dog will like the cold, cozy feeling of the ground beneath the surface.
What you can do: Direct your dog to shaded areas of the yard, like a tree, and give him praise when he stays there. A doghouse that provides all-weather protection is another option. Of course, your dog should remain inside during really high temperatures.
Some dogs just like digging
Many dogs like digging for no particular reason. Digging produces intriguing odors and stimulates the mind. In areas where you've recently been gardening, this will frequently occur.
If Everything Else Fails
There are a couple more drastic steps you may use after you've tried everything to stop your dog from digging.
You can keep your dog in a pen if you have to keep him outside. Even a homemade pen that will work for you is possible; just be sure to choose one with a ground cover that makes it difficult for him to dig through, like gravel. You could even put him in a smaller cage similar to the one you would use to transport him to the veterinarian if that doesn't work.
Make sure your dog has a place to stay, whether it's in your yard, a kennel, or a pen, as well as some shelter, water, soft bedding, and a few toys to keep him busy. Never leave them out in the elements.
Working with a dog trainer or behaviorist at this time can also assist you improve your dog's behavior. Dog training may greatly improve a dog's behavior. It provides him with something to do, keeps his body and mind busy, and allows him to spend time with you, his favorite person.
