How to Deal With Incessant Dog Digging
A dog that loves to dig can destroy your yard pretty quickly. With warmer weather and yard improvements on your spring to-do list, here’s how to fix those holes (plus a few ideas to keep your dog from digging in the first place).
How to fill the holes that a dog digs
The first thing to know is that you shouldn’t just push the excavated earth back into the hole. You probably won’t be able to do this anyway, as dogs that dig usually make a huge mess by kicking dirt all over the place.
Instead, you need to add topsoil and, if you have grass, seeds and sod. The Family Handyman suggests the following steps to repair a dog’s burrow:
- Fill the hole with the top layer of soil, water, and add just enough soil to be level with the ground.
- Add seeds following package directions and water.
- If necessary, backfill with soil to below ground level so that the gap is equal to the thickness of your turf area.
- Roll out the sod around the hole and trim the edges to size.
- Remove the sod and, if necessary, excavate a hole to keep the land level with the surrounding ground.
- Put the sod back and water daily until it takes root.
How to get your dog to stop digging
Of course, you will do this endlessly unless you address the root cause of your dog digging holes. Dogs can dig your yard for a number of reasons:
- They are bored and need to have fun or work.
- They were bred to dig.
- They look for prey, such as burrowing animals or pests.
- They are hot (or cold).
- They try to run away after something or from something.
- They are looking for attention.
It can be difficult to pinpoint the root of the problem at first, but there are certain patterns and behaviors that can help you narrow it down. For example, your dog might hunt for prey if it digs mostly in one place, around tree roots or along a path. If they lie down in their burrows, they may seek protection from the heat. Dogs left alone for long periods of time are more likely to dig for fun or to get attention.
How to stop digging depends on the root cause, but in general, look first for what your dog might need, such as a toy, shade, or water. Frequent walks, minimizing unsupervised time, and engaging the dog in tricks or commands can also help. Typically, your dog’s punishment is not. And if you’re on the lookout for pests, avoid toxic foods your dog can swallow.
The internet differs over the strategy of filling the holes with feces so that your dog doesn’t dig in the same spot again. Most dogs won’t go for their own food, but some can.
Finally, if digging continues, you can teach your dog to dig in a designated area – a hole filled with earth or sand and your dog’s toys. Encourage them to use their digging hole instead of other parts of your yard.