Many dogs, especially puppies, love to dig—it’s instinctual and often one of their favorite activities! This behavior is especially common in sporting, terrier, and Nordic breeds.
While we don’t want to stop them from enjoying what comes naturally, we also don't want our garden to look like a minefield! I eventually found a solution that allows them to dig to their heart’s content while keeping your garden intact.
The key is teaching them to dig in a designated area that works for them and you. Here’s a simple, win-win approach that you can try:
1. Choose a designated digging area.
Find a spot where your dog can dig freely without causing harm to themselves or your garden. Consider creating one if your garden doesn’t naturally have such an area. For instance, you could purchase a shell-shaped paddling pool, usually meant for children, and fill half of it with sand. It can be the perfect solution!
2. Make the digging spot fun and rewarding.
Encourage your dog to use their new digging area by hiding some of their favorite toys or treats under the sand or dirt. Play along by digging with them to create a fun game of “treasure hunt.” As you play, introduce a digging command like “Go dig!” so your dog begins to associate this spot as the approved place to dig.
3. Reinforce the digging habit daily.
Visit the digging area with your dog each day, use your digging command, and encourage them to start digging. Before long, they’ll eagerly scratch at the dirt, anticipating the fun that awaits them.
4. Correct digging in unwanted areas.
If you catch your dog digging elsewhere in the garden, firmly say “NO!” and redirect them to their designated spot, repeating your digging command. Over time, your dog will instinctively head to their approved digging area whenever they feel the urge.
If they occasionally dig in other parts of the garden. Call their name and say, “Go dig,” and they will dash over to their sandpit, thrilled to dig there instead.
In summer, you can turn the sandpit into a mini pool for them to cool off in, as they will love lounging in it to sunbathe! With these steps, your dog can indulge their natural instincts without turning your garden into a mess! Contact us for more training tips.
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