Do Dogs Grow Out of Digging? Understanding and Managing Canine Behavior
Digging is a behavior that many dog owners find frustrating. Whether it’s ruts in the backyard, holes in the garden, or tunnels beneath a fence, dogs have strong reasons for this instinctual activity. The short answer is that dogs do not usually grow out of digging entirely. However, with proper management, training, and understanding of the causes, you can significantly reduce or redirect this behavior.
Why Do Dogs Dig?
Digging is a natural and instinctive action for many dogs, rooted in their genetics and needs. Here are the common reasons:
- Boredom or Lack of Stimulation: Dogs with excess energy or insufficient mental stimulation often dig as a pastime.
- Seeking Comfort: On hot days, dogs may dig to find a cooler area to lie in, or burrow for shelter from wind or rain.
- Escape Behavior: Some dogs dig along fences to try to escape, especially if they’re lonely or see something interesting outside.
- Instinctual Drives: Breeds like terriers are naturally inclined to dig due to their heritage in hunting burrowing animals.
- Hunting Prey: Dogs might dig when they smell or hear rodents and insects underground.
- Attention-Seeking: If dogs receive a reaction from owners when digging, they may continue just to get attention.
- Triggered by Smells: Blood meal fertilizers, compost, or animal scents in the yard can prompt digging.
Will They Outgrow It?
While puppies might dig more during developmental stages, many dogs do not naturally grow out of digging. Instead, they require environmental changes, guidance, or redirection of the behavior. Older dogs with unmet needs may even start digging if they hadn't before.
How to Stop or Redirect Digging
Managing a dog’s digging requires addressing the cause and offering appropriate alternatives. Use these strategies:
1. Increase Exercise and Interaction
- Walk your dog daily and vary the routes to provide new smells and experiences.
- Plan engaging playtime with fetch, tug, or agility exercises.
- Use puzzle feeders and interactive toys to occupy their mind.
2. Provide Comfort and Shelter
- Offer a shaded area or doghouse so your pet can cool off safely.
- Ensure constant access to clean water and a comfortable rest space.
- On hot days, a kiddie pool can serve as a fun and refreshing dig substitute.
3. Prevent Escape Motivations
- Identify what might be drawing your dog to escape – sights, sounds, or loneliness.
- Bury chain link or mesh fencing 1–2 feet beneath the perimeter to deter digging under fences.
- Dig guards or flat barriers at known escape points can help limit digging success.
4. Eliminate Attractive Smells and Prey
- Remove fertilizers, compost, or other scent-attracting materials from accessible areas.
- Treat the yard (humanely) for rodents or insects that might be provoking digging.
5. Discourage Digging in Certain Areas
- Cover holes with flat stones or board mesh to make the area less appealing.
- Use safe deterrents like citrus peel, cayenne pepper, or vinegar where digging occurs.
- Plant spiky bushes or place objects to block access to favorite digging zones.
6. Redirect Behavior Positively
- Create a “dig zone” like a dirt patch or sandbox with buried toys and treats.
- Encourage your dog to dig there and reward this behavior consistently.
- Use cues like “dig” to establish positive control over when and where it happens.
7. Address Attention-Seeking Behavior
- Do not yell or react strongly when your dog digs – this can reinforce the action.
- Ignore undesirable digging and lavish praise when the dog is playing appropriately.
8. Seek Help for Compulsive Digging
- If digging becomes excessive or obsessive, it may be a sign of anxiety.
- Consider working with a veterinary behaviorist or trainer for a customized plan.
Conclusion: Understanding Is Key
While dogs might not “outgrow” digging, consistent training, attention to environmental factors, and providing appropriate outlets can drastically reduce or redirect this behavior. The goal is not to punish, but to understand what's driving the digging, and supply the necessary outlets to meet those needs safely and constructively.
