How to Train Your Dog to Stop Digging Holes

Supply your dog with toys and yard activities to deter digging.

Dogs can dig for pleasure, out of curiosity, exploration and boredom. Breeds such as basset hounds and beagles are born to dig, while others might be seeking attention from their owners. This can be a problem if a dog decides to dig through a rose garden or along the enclosed fence. Understanding why your dog is digging will help determine the appropriate steps to take to either curb or alleviate this habit.

Things You'll Need

• Chili peppers
• Mustard powder

Instructions

1. Refrain from gardening work within your dog's view. The sight of you digging and playing in dirt can be taken as an invitation to dig as well. You might consider bordering off the area or masking the smell of the soil with a dog deterrent.

2. Choose a small area where your dog is allowed to dig. Certain breeds such as terriers and dachshunds have a natural inclination to dig and might never quit, no matter what you do. Designate and area around 4 feet by 6 feet, located in a cool area. During the summer months, heavy coated breeds like Chow Chow and Huskies dig for cool spots to cool down. The area will provide privacy when digging to hide toys.

3. Give your dog plenty of attention and exercise. Some dogs dig as a way to release energy or because they are bored. Set aside time every day to exercise and drain any pent-up energy your dog might have. Running, swimming or allowing your dog to run free at the dog park for 30 minutes to a few hours a day can help alleviate this extra energy.

4. Utilize commercial or natural dog deterrents in the areas where the dog digs. Chili peppers and mustard powder are natural dog deterrents; your dog will avoid digging in the areas where they find the smell.

5. Consider spaying or neutering your dog if the dog is digging to leave the yard. The dog might be digging from the drive to mate with another dog outside of the enclosure. Reduced spay and neuter services might be offered at your local SPCA or Human Society, typically costing $35 to $150, depending on the location.

Tips & Warnings

• Fill the holes up as soon as you can. An open hole is very tempting to a dog that is fond of digging in them.

• Never use extreme physical force to discipline your dog. They are very intelligent animals and are able to easily grasp what you are trying to teach them if you communicate with them effectively.

References

• Free Dog Training; Six Ways to Help Train Your Dog Not to Dig
• A Complete Guide to Responsible Dog Ownership; How to Stop Dogs From Digging
• UC Davis Veterinary Medicine; Why Does My Dog Dig; Bree Gessen et al.

Resources

• Humane Society; Where to Have Your Pet Spayed or Neutered