Why do dogs dig? 6 things that might be driving the behaviour
Digging is normal dog behaviour, however it can be frustrating when they dig up your flowerbeds and drag mud into the house.
As with any behaviour correction, pet owners need to exercise patience. If digging becomes problematic, consult with a professional dog trainer or your local vet for advice.
If you're wondering why dogs dig, we asked Dr. Alejandro Caos, a vet with The Vets, for his expert advice.
Why do dogs dig?
Before trying to change your dog's behaviour, you first need to know why it's happening. Take a look at the six reasons below:
• Instinctual behaviour: According to Dr. Caos, digging is in their nature. He said, "Dogs are descendants of wolves, and digging is a natural instinct that was once essential for survival.
"Wolves would dig dens for shelter, protection, and raising their young. This instinctual behaviour can still be present in dogs, although it may vary in intensity among different breeds."
• Seeking comfort or coolness: Does your dog dig a hole and then lie in it? Then he's probably doing it for comfort. Dr. Caos says, "Dogs may dig to create a comfortable resting spot or to escape from extreme temperatures. By digging a hole, they can create a cool and shady area to lie in."
• Boredom or excess energy: For some dogs, digging is a way to alleviate boredom or release pent-up energy. Dr. Caos explains, "Digging provides a physical and mental outlet, allowing them to explore and engage in natural behaviours."
• Hiding valuables: If you notice toys or other treasures going missing, your dog is probably a hoarder. Dr Caos says, "Some dogs may dig to bury or hide treasured items, such as toys, bones, or food. This behaviour is reminiscent of their ancestral scavenging instincts to store food for later consumption."
• Escaping or investigating: If a dog is kept in a confined space, like a fenced-in yard, he may dig to try to escape, especially if he is feeling anxious or bored, according to Dr. Caos. If there's an unfamiliar scent, curious pups may dig to investigate what's underground.
• Breed-specific traits: For some dogs, digging is a matter of genetics. Certain breeds, like terriers, have a higher tendency to dig. More on that below.
How to stop a dog from digging
Dr. Caos recommends that pet owners supervise their dogs and stop them in the act of digging with a firm "no." Praise them with positive reinforcement for desired behaviours, and make sure they have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Some dogs do well when their owners provide them with a designated digging spot like a sandbox or patch of grass.
Once you discover why your dog is digging, you can try a more targeted approach. Dr. Caos cautions that all dogs are different and the solutions will need to be tailored based on their individual temperament.
He also focuses on training positively. Dr. Caos says, "Punishment or harsh methods can often lead to fear and anxiety in dogs, so it's best to focus on redirection and training."
• Exercise and enrichment: If your dog is digging out of boredom, provide him with plenty of exercise, interactive toys, and enrichment activities. Dr. Caos recommends games, training sessions, and puzzle toys.
• Secure the environment: If your dog is digging to escape, you'll want to take action quickly as this can lead to harm. Check fences, use dig-proof barriers, and supervise your dog during outdoor time. If the behaviour persists, talk to a professional trainer.
• Address anxiety: If you suspect your dog has anxiety, you'll need to address the underlying cause. Make sure your dog has a safe and comfortable space. Dr. Caos recommends consulting a trainer or behaviourist for desensitisation and counterconditioning exercises.
• Exercise their prey drive: If your dog is digging to pursue small animals or insects, engage them in structured activities such as fetch or interactive play with appropriate toys.
• Provide a cool resting spot: If your dog is digging to find a spot to cool down, make sure they have a spot to rest in a shaded area with access to fresh water and cooling options like doggie pools or cooling mats. Excessive heat can be dangerous to dogs, so when in doubt, bring them inside.
Are certain breeds more likely to be diggers?
Dr. Caos reports that some breeds are more likely to dig due to their genetic predispositions and historical purposes. With proper training, socialisation, and outlets for mental and physical exercise, the behaviour can be corrected in any dog. All dogs are different, but here are some that are more likely to dig.
• Terriers: Breeds like Jack Russell terriers and fox terriers were originally bred for hunting and burrowing prey, so it's only natural that they dig.
• Huskies and malamutes: According to Dr. Caos, "These Arctic working breeds have a strong instinct to dig and create shelter in snow or soil. They may dig to create a cool resting spot or to escape confinement."
• Beagles: Beagles have a keen sense of smell and a strong prey drive, so they may dig in search of small animals or interesting smells.
• Dachshunds: Dachshunds were bred for hunting small game. Plus, their body shape and strong front legs make them efficient diggers.
• Basset hounds: Basset hounds have a strong desire to follow scents. Dr. Caos explains that they may dig to investigate odors or to create a cool spot to lie in.
• Border collies: Border collies tend to be high-energy and intelligent. They require mental and physical stimulation to keep them from getting bored.
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