How to Stop Your Dog from Digging Up Your Yard

A yard full of holes and torn-up grass can be frustrating for any dog owner. If your pup has a habit of digging, you’re not alone—many dogs instinctively dig for a variety of reasons. While digging is natural, it can become a destructive habit that damages your lawn and creates safety risks.

With the right training and redirection, you can stop dog digging and teach your pup better behaviors. Let’s explore why dogs dig, how to redirect the behavior, and when professional training can help.

Common Reasons Dogs Dig

Dogs don’t dig just to frustrate their owners. Digging is usually caused by instinct, boredom, or stress. Understanding the reason behind the behavior is key to stopping it.

1. Instinct and Breed Tendencies

Some dogs are born to dig! Certain breeds, like terriers, dachshunds, and huskies, have a natural urge to dig for prey, shelter, or cooling down.

2. Boredom and Excess Energy

If your dog isn’t getting enough mental and physical stimulation, they may dig as a way to entertain themselves.

3. Anxiety or Stress

Dogs experiencing separation anxiety or fear may dig as a coping mechanism. If they’re digging near fences or gates, they may be trying to escape or find comfort.

4. Seeking Comfort or Temperature Regulation

In hot weather, dogs may dig to create a cool spot in the dirt. In cold weather, they may dig for warmth.

5. Hunting Instincts

Dogs with a strong prey drive may dig to chase after burrowing animals, such as moles or rabbits.

Once you identify why your dog is digging, you can take the right steps to stop the behavior.

Training Techniques to Redirect the Behavior

Stopping digging requires patience and consistency. Instead of punishing your dog, focus on redirecting their behavior to better alternatives.

1. Increase Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Many dogs dig because they’re bored or have too much pent-up energy. Providing structured activities can help:

✔ Daily Walks – Ensure your dog gets enough physical exercise every day.
✔ Interactive Play – Tug-of-war, fetch, and agility drills keep your dog engaged.
✔ Mental Stimulation – Puzzle toys, scent work, and obedience training challenge your dog’s mind.

2. Interrupt and Redirect Digging

If you catch your dog in the act of digging:

🐾 Use a Distraction – Call their name, use a recall command, or toss a toy.
🐾 Redirect to an Acceptable Behavior – Give them a puzzle toy or start a training game.
🐾 Reward Good Behavior – Praise or treat them when they stop digging.

3. Block Off Digging Spots

If your dog always digs in the same area, you can try:

🚧 Using barriers (fencing, chicken wire, or rocks).
🚧 Covering the area with large stones or mulch.
🚧 Adding deterrents like citrus peels or vinegar (dogs dislike the smell).

Providing Alternatives: A Designated Digging Area

Instead of stopping digging completely, some dogs do best with a designated digging area. This gives them an outlet for their instincts without destroying your yard.

How to Create a Digging Spot:

🪴 Choose a corner of your yard and fill it with loose dirt or sand.
🪴 Bury toys or treats in the area to encourage your dog to dig there.
🪴 Reward them for using the designated spot instead of your garden.

With consistent training, your dog will learn where they can dig and where they can’t.

How Professional Training Can Curb Destructive Digging

If your dog’s digging is out of control, professional training can help. A trainer can:

✔ Identify the root cause of the digging behavior.
✔ Teach impulse control and obedience commands.
✔ Help build better habits through structured training sessions.
✔ Provide customized solutions based on your dog’s breed and personality.

At Off Leash K9 Training Missoula, we specialize in dog behavior training to address issues like digging, barking, and jumping.

Struggling with a Digging Dog? Let’s Work on a Solution Together!

You don’t have to deal with a torn-up yard forever. With the right training, digging can be managed and redirected.

📞 Call (406) 946-3037 or fill out the form below for a FREE consultation!

Let’s help your dog learn better habits while keeping your yard intact!