How To Stop Your Dog From Digging

Digging in dogs is ver common. It is important to understand that your dog isn't digging to intentionally or spitefully destroy your yard. There are many reasons that causes dogs to dig. To stop this problem you must first identify what these reasons are.

Why do Dogs Dig?

* They are seeking entertainment

* They are looking for attention

* Imitating their master, (could have seen you digging away in the garden)

* Food Storage ( I'm sure you've seen or heard of dogs burying bones)

* Hunting Prey (Could be Hunting little critters that live underground or in your garden)

* Instinctively (could be a breed of dog like a terrier where digging is bred into them)

* Digging a bunk to warm up, cool down or sleep. (just as he would in the wild)

* Boredom. (lack of activity and is simply releasing energy)
Stop Your Dog From Digging

Once you have figured out what causes your dog to dig, the next step is to send him a clear and consistent message that it is inappropriate as you would with any other unacceptable behavior. It is important to catch him in the act so that your dog associates the negativity with his digging. Also here are some techniques that you can apply to help control your dogs digging problems

* Release some of your dogs energy ( play with him, teach him some tricks or games and play them with him as often as possible)

* Keep some fun dog toys around your yard, (doggie ball, Kong toy stuffed with treats, etc.)

* Obedience train your dog (this makes it easier to communicate acceptable and unacceptable behavior)

* Confine your dog when you cant supervise him, (Kennel, crate, Secure room)

* Bury chicken wire where he usually digs, ( he wont like is paws scratching against it) this will also develop a negative association with digging.

* Monitor your dog, every time you catch him in the act, spray him with your hose or throw a tin can filled with coins/stones/marbles NOT AT, but in his direction (negative association)

* Bury his poop in his digging area, Most dogs don't like this

* If its a male and he's trying to dig under the fence trying to get out, he may be trying to get out in search of a mate. Neutering may solve this problem

* If your dog is digging seeking prey, I recommend seeking them out and rid your yard of them, avoid methods that are toxic to your pets

* Provide your dog with a designated digging area. Encourage your dog to dig in an area you approve of, fill it with soft sand, and bury some of his favorite toys or treat, reward him when he digs in the designated area.
The easiest way to solve most problems with your dog is proper obedience training, this way your dog understands you and there is no confusion to likes and dislikes. Dogs are very loyal, respectful and eager to please you. Give then the chance!

Shawn Almgren has been a dedicated dog trainer for years, and developed the website www.doggie-tips.com as a resource for many dog trainers and dog owners,so that they can understand their dogs and provide them with whats needed to have a strong dog/owner bond and have their needs as canines fulfilled
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