How to Train a Dog not to Dig

Most people don't like the fact that their dog tends to dig all over their yard. Dog digging is a natural activity for dogs and unfortunately one of their favorite pastimes. Digging is one of the top 10 canine behavioral issues. Some breeds, because of their heritage, are natural born diggers. Breeds like dachshunds and terriers were “designed” to dig for small animals, but almost any dog will send dirt flying if they thinks they're hot on the trail of a potentially tasty/entertaining quarry. So here is a tip to help you stop your dog digging holes in your yard. This is a simple inexpensive method and with a little time your dog will soon be digging where you want it to rather than all over your yard.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Storage Bin

   Go to your favorite store and purchase one of those plastic Rubber-maid storage bins. This will be your dig pit. Probably best to get the biggest and deepest one you can find.

2. Find a suitable place in your yard where you are going to allow your dog to dig. Dig a hole in the shape of the bin and deep enough for it to be buried with the top flush to the ground. Drill lots of little holes in the bottom for drainage. Fill about 3/4 full with paver sand. I don't recommend the sand you can find for children's sand boxes because it very fine and your dog will be getting it all in its coat.

3. 
    

   Doing the training. My dog took to using the dig pit pretty quick. Whenever she started to dig, I just moved her to the sand pit and encouraged her to dig there. If you have a hard time getting your dog to use it, try playing with the dog's favorite toy and then bury it in the sand. Let them see you do this, then encourage them to dig it up and reward them when they do. Burying their favorite treats is a good alternative.

4. Maintaining the pit. It's a good idea to keep the sand moist in the summer. Dogs like to dig into moist sand/dirt then lie in it to keep cool. I have a drip watering system for my hanging plants, so I installed the bin under one of the pots. Now the sand gets a dose of water every morning. Just remember your dog is going to dig all the sand out of the box, so you'll have to rake it back in every once and awhile.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog is still digging holes around the yard, bury their poop in it and cover it up. Though gross sounding, they most likely won't dig there again!
• Discipline them only if you catch them in the act of digging. If it is not done right when they're in the act, they won't know what they are being scolded for.
• For big dog owners you might want to try this option if you can't find a very larger bin. Dig a hole about 2 ft deep, sloped on the sides. Then cover the sides and bottom with about 1 1/2 of concrete. For drainage, push straws through the concrete before it sets. Cut the straws flush once the cement is dry and then fill the pit with sand. The cement option has the added benefit of keeping the dogs nails trimmed.
• Thank you for reading my article. If you enjoyed it, and would like more information please follow the links on this page to related articles.

[betterbody]

on 4/25/2009 Good tips on How to Prevent Your Dog Digging. 5 *s and a recommend.

[aquaeyedgirl]

on 4/13/2009 I am definitely going to try your tips on my black Lab.

[carmensjones]

on 4/13/2009 your article on How to Prevent Your Dog Digging

[langleycornwell]

on 3/19/2009 Great idea to bury your dog's favorite toy or bone. 5*

[Smireles]

on 3/10/2009 This is a great idea I never ever thought of! Good job. 5*