Why Do Dogs Dig?

 

Estimated Read Time:  3 ½ minutes

Summary: “Why do dogs dig holes?” In this blog, learn why dogs dig carpets, beds, couches, your garden and under fences. And, we’ll learn how to get a dog to stop digging...  

 

It can be incredibly frustrating when Fido digs up your garden for no apparent reason. Perhaps you’re coming home to a scratched-up sofa too after a particularly ferocious digging sesh... But, before you get upset at your dog, let’s learn why they’re doing it. Why do dogs dig holes...? 

Why Do Dogs Dig? 

Digging is actually an instinctive behaviour and all dogs will dig to some extent. Arguably, it’s more prevalent in dachshunds and terrier breeds because of their high prey drive. These breeds instinctively know to seek out small animals or rodents they can hear or smell under the ground. 

Dog Digging Under Fence 

If your dog is digging under your fence, this is usually because they want to get to something on the other side; another dog or something that smells good perhaps. Digging is obviously an easier option than attempting to jump over the fence!  

Why Do Dogs Dig On Beds And Couches? 

If there’s nothing smelly underneath the carpet, bed or couch then your dog may be a bit bored. Excessive digging for no apparent reason can indicate that your dog isn’t receiving enough exercise or mental stimulation. Check out our guide below on how much physical exercise your dog needs depending on their breed: 

They may also be attempting to relieve themselves of stress or anxiety, so think about what’s just happened to them and consider if this has caused them to feel this way.  

Why Do Dogs Dig Holes? 

If your dog is digging a hole in your garden, they may be having a game with themselves and planting a treat or biscuit for later on. Or they may be trying to find a treat they hid for themselves there earlier! 

If the weather is hot, digging a hole can sometimes be used as a method to help cool themselves down. Larger dogs with thick coats are more likely to adopt this behaviour on a warm day. 

How To Stop A Dog From Digging 

There are multiple things that you can try to encourage your dog to stop digging. Here are the best dog-digging deterrents: 

Neutering; A male dog will be less likely to attempt to seek out female dogs via digging if he’s neutered.  

Ensure they’re appropriately stimulated; make sure they’re getting the right amount of exercise and interaction they and their breed need. 

Provide them a designated space to dig; perhaps a sandbox in your yard, and you can encourage them to use it via positive reinforcement.  

Appropriate prevention and intervention; got a dog that likes to bury? Keep treats inside. Got a dog with a strong prey instinct? Keep your yard rodent-free (without using poison). And, try not to leave them in your garden unsupervised, so you can redirect the digging behaviour in a positive way which will encourage them not to do it.

Sources

Author Bauhaus, Jean Marie “How To Get Your Dog To Stop Digging (& Why They Do It)” Hill’s Pet, Jan 29. 2021 https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/behavior-appearance/how-to-stop-dog-from-digging