Getting rid of unwanted digging means you’ll have to re-educate your dog. Teach your dog new ways to occupy the mind and body so they are not tempted to scratch in the dirt. Consider how long you expect your dog’s training will take. While some people prefer DIY training, the best way to stop unwanted behavior in your canine pal would be to sign up for professional Dog training in Savannah, GA.
There are many techniques to train a dog to stop digging; some work better than others. Read on to learn why dogs dig and how to train a dog to stop digging.
Dogs Dig for Escape
Dogs dig as a form of escape. They may dig under fences, in the yard, and in other areas where they feel trapped.
How to Resolve
- Place rocks along the fence line, partially buried in the soil. It will make it more difficult for your dog to dig under them.
- Place the chain link on the ground so that it’s buried at least halfway into the ground. It will prevent your dog from escaping through the fence by digging through it.
- You will need to teach them new behavior modification skills. The best way is through rewards and consequences.
As you try to resolve this, please don’t punish the dog, as it will create anxiety, worsening the digging. Also, please don’t fill the hole dug by the dog with water or stake the dog in it.
Dogs Dig to Hunt
Dogs hunt for prey, and digging is a natural way for them to do that. Dogs use their nose and mouth to find food, so they will naturally dig in search of any buried prey.
If the dog tends to dig in a specific area, tree roots, or digging in a path layout, then you need to take action.
How to Resolve
It’s essential to train your dog not to dig in the yard. If you don’t, it can cause quite a bit of damage.
The best way to stop digging is to ensure the area is fenced off or made unattractive. It can be done by using metal fencing or putting up plants around the area where your dog will be digging. You want to ensure that there are no places for your dog to get into trouble and dig too deeply into your garden or yard.
You also want to ensure that if you fence off an area, there are no holes in it where the dog could squeeze through or wiggle through somehow. If there are gaps in your fence, ensure they are small enough that even a small dog cannot fit through them.
Dogs Dig For Comfort and Protection
If your dog digs near a water source or building foundation, it’s for comfort and protection. Dogs dig into lying down to make a den, to find a warm spot to sleep, or simply as a way to feel secure. They also dig out of boredom and loneliness.
How to Resolve
If you notice your dog digging for comfort, try giving her someplace she can hide during the day. For example, a dog crate is an excellent place for your dog to retreat when she feels like she needs some distance from the world around her.
Dogs Dig for Entertainment
Digging is fun for the dog and is a great way to relieve stress, boredom, and anxiety. A bored or anxious dog may dig up your yard or garden to find something interesting to chew. They might also dig because it’s unique and exciting, such as a bone in their backyard that they haven’t seen before.
How to Resolve
It’s just a matter of consistency. Follow these steps:
- Ensure your dog is playing with toys to avoid boredom.
- Take your dog out for walks at least twice a week, even if it’s only for 10 minutes. If you’re going to the park, stay there for at least 30 minutes (the longer, the better).
- Teach your dog new commands such as “sit” or “stay.” You can also teach them to wait for their treat before they get up after being told: “stay.”
- If the above fails, take your dog to obedience classes with other dogs.
Dogs Dig to Seek Attention
Dogs use digging behavior as a means of attention-seeking humans. The reason is simple: Dogs are pack animals and need to be in a position of dominance. When a dog digs, it shows its owner is not paying enough attention. It is hoping that its owner will notice the digging and come to see what’s going on.
How to Resolve
Ignore the attention-seeking and lavish praise of good dog behavior. Don’t forget to give your dog plenty of daily exercise for walks and playtime.
How to Create the Dog Digging Area
Creating a dog digging area for your dog is easy, and it’s the best way to help them stay healthy. The digging area must be one your dog can access so they don’t have to waste time getting there. It should also be near the house.
You might also consider creating an area in your yard with no grass or dirt, giving them even more room to dig. Here are steps for creating a dog digging zone:
- You need to dig a small pit and then fill it with sand.
- Create an inviting digging area by concealing fun and safe objects (like toys).
- Teach them to know where the digging area is.
- Acknowledge their efforts and encourage them when they dig in the designated area.
The best way to stop a dog’s digging is to prevent it from happening in the first place. If you give the dog enough exercise, it will not want to leave its crate in the first place. Always monitor your dog when he starts digging; jumping in and correcting them may stop the habit in progress. But don’t punish the dog. By using a combination of methods, you should be able to train your dog to stop digging holes in the ground. Contact George Pine K9 LLC via our website https://www.georgiapinek9.com/ and let’s train your dog to stop digging, among other behavioral modifications.
Georgia Pine K9 Dog Training,
818 Kolic Helmey Rd Guyton GA 31312,
7192916727
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