Top Dog Breeds That Love to Dig
Digging is a natural behavior in many dogs, often rooted in centuries of instinctual traits. From boredom to scent tracking, certain breeds are genetically predisposed to break ground more frequently than others. If you're considering bringing a pup home and want to know which breeds tend to dig the most — or if you're trying to understand why your pet loves making craters in your garden — read on for a comprehensive look at the top digging dog breeds.
Why Do Dogs Dig?
- Instinctual Drive: Many breeds were originally bred to hunt small animals that burrow underground.
- Entertainment: Digging can be a fun activity for bored dogs left alone for extended periods.
- Comfort-Seeking: In warm climates, dogs may dig to access cooler soil.
- Escape: Some dogs dig around fences to try escaping from confined spaces.
Top Dog Breeds That Dig the Most
- Jack Russell Terrier: Known for their boundless energy and hunting instincts, these small dogs love to dig after scents and vermin.
- Dachshund: Originally bred to hunt badgers, their long bodies and strong paws make them exceptional diggers.
- Siberian Husky: This Arctic breed often digs to escape enclosed yards or to cool off during warm weather.
- Beagle: These scent hounds often dig to follow and locate smells; their noses frequently lead them underground.
- Cairn Terrier: Another terrier with a strong prey drive, Cairn Terriers were bred to root out animals from tunnels.
- Alaskan Malamute: Similar to Huskies, Malamutes enjoy digging holes in search of cooler ground and have high energy levels.
- Border Collie: While more mentally driven than instinct-driven diggers, bored and under-stimulated Border Collies may resort to digging as a release for their energy.
- Fox Terrier: True to their name, this breed was used to chase foxes from their dens, which involved a lot of digging.
- West Highland White Terrier: Another dog from the terrier group, “Westies” were bred to eliminate rodents and enjoy digging as a result.
- Airedale Terrier: The largest of the terriers, Airedales are strong diggers with a deep need to explore and satisfy their prey drive.
How to Manage a Dog’s Digging Habits
While digging is natural for many breeds, excessive digging can become a problem. Here are a few tips to minimize unwanted holes in your backyard:
- Provide Enrichment: Mental stimulation like puzzle toys and interactive games can curb digging behavior by eliminating boredom.
- Add Physical Activity: Ensure your dog gets enough exercise daily, especially for high-energy breeds like Huskies and Jack Russells.
- Create a Digging Zone: Consider allocating a specific place in your yard for digging and train your dog to use that space.
- Avoid Leaving Them Alone for Long: Separation can lead to destructive behaviors like digging as a coping mechanism.
Conclusion
If you're dealing with a garden full of holes or planning to adopt a dog, understanding breed tendencies can make a big difference. Terrier breeds, in particular, are notorious diggers, joined by northern breeds like Huskies and Malamutes. By acknowledging your dog’s natural instincts and redirecting their behavior with healthy outlets, you can live harmoniously—even if your furry friend has a love for digging.
