Whenever you are trying to change a dog’s behaviour it is important to understand why he is behaving the way he is. Looking at things from the dog’s point of view will often save you a lot of time, money and headaches. There are many reason why dogs dig. Dogs dig out of boredom. They like to bury food, they like the smells. Dogs like to dig for shelter, either from the cold or from the heat. Some dogs dig in hopes of finding small animals and others just plain enjoy digging.

Once you feel you know why your dog is digging you can begin the process of changing his behaviour.

To stop dog digging first, make sure that your dog gets plenty of exercise. Play challenging games with him so that he also gets mental exercise each day. Make sure he has toys to play with to keep him occupied, but avoid buying things that he might want to bury. Don’t buy the big bone instead get him a kong. They last longer and can be filled with treats.

Buy a squirt gun. Every time your dog starts to dig, spray him. This works well, but of course you have to be around to catch him. You can also try this method using the sprinkler. Bury it just below the surface and turn it on the moment he starts digging.

Try burying some chicken wire in his favourite spots. Dogs do not like the feel and will stop.

Some dogs are attracted to something on the other side of the fence. Always make sure that there are no holes in the fence and no gaps at the bottom. If you have to, use chicken wire to fill in the spaces below the fence. It is a good idea to bury some of the wire at least a foot away from the fence

If your dog has a certain spot that he likes to dig, bury some of his own feces in the hole. There are very few dogs that want to dig through their own waste. This is a bit messy but is probably the most effective way of getting your dog to stop digging.

Another alternative is to provide your dog with his own digging area. Designate a spot where he is allowed to dig. To encourage him to dig in his own ‘spot’ try burying a toy filled with treats. Make it into a fun game for him. Reward him when he digs in his area. If he starts digging somewhere else, go to his spot and call him in an excited voice. Reward him for coming and praise him for digging in the right spot.

Once you know how to stop a dog from digging, like all unwanted behaviours, most can be altered with time, patience and consistency.