Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. Let’s consider the most important below and take a look at how you can help your dog if they are dealing with one of these issues.

To Get Attention

Some dogs want more attention from you and start digging up the yard because they know it will get a reaction out of you. If you want to stop your dog from digging for attention, you have to give them attention—the right kind! 

The Fix

Instead of getting mad at your pup for digging, simply ignore their behavior. Take your dog out to play or walk, giving them more good attention and entertainment. You might just find that they stop digging once you do. 

To Relieve Boredom

Sometimes, your dog may simply be bored. Dogs are not made to be caged for long periods of time, so it could be that your pup is tired of waiting in the yard with nothing to do but wander around all day. 

The Fix

If you suspect your dog is digging out of boredom, it’s important to give them some activities to do. Take them out for a walk at least twice a day, if not more. Buy them a few new toys to pique their interest. Spend time playing with them by throwing a frisbee or other moving object for them to chase after. 

You can also do fun activities with your dog like taking them to training sessions or practicing a few commands on your own. These activities should encourage your dog to use their brain and body more and keep them feeling satisfied at the end of the day.

To Escape the Yard

Some dogs may be trying to escape the yard and find more dogs or people to play with. This is especially likely if the holes they dig are near a fence line. 

The Fix

If you suspect your dog is trying to escape, your best bet is to offer a further barrier of protection.

For example, you could bury chicken wire on the ground where the dog usually digs. Chicken wire may hurt their paws and will certainly discourage digging. You could also bury the fence more deeply in the ground, bury or partially bury rocks near the fence line, or place some chain link fencing on the ground where your dog digs. 

In addition to these discouraging methods, you should also work with your dog to modify their behavior. Talking with a dog trainer could help if you aren’t sure where to start. 

To Stay Comfortable

If your dog is digging under trees or at the foundation of your house and if they tend to lie in the holes they dig, they may be trying to stay comfortable. It could be that they’re too hot in the sun or too cold in the winter weather and need a more temperature-controlled climate.

The Fix

If you think your dog is trying to stay more comfortable, consider bringing them inside for the hottest or coldest portions of the day. You can also provide them with a dedicated spot where they can comfortably go on especially hot, cold, or rainy/snowy days. 

This could be a natural spot between trees or under plants. Or, you can buy a shade or umbrella made for dogs to ensure maximum comfort and protection. 

To Catch Pests

If your yard is home to rodents (think squirrels, moles, gophers, rats, etc.) or irritating insects, your dog may be digging to catch what they consider “prey.” This behavior is completely natural and expected from many dogs and is probably the cause of their digging if they tend to dig in a “path-like” pattern, dig under trees or plants, or dig in one specific spot. 

The Fix

Of course, if pests are leaving a mess in your yard too, you’ll want to get rid of them. You may need to call an exterminator or find a safe method of getting rid of them. Just be careful what you use, as many toxins meant for pests can also harm your dogs.