Why do dogs dig and how to address this behavior.
Introduction
Digging is a natural behavior for dogs. They may dig for a variety of reasons, such as to find food, to cool off, to create a den, or to mark their territory. Digging can be a problem if it is done in inappropriate places, such as in the yard, in the house, or in the trash.
Common Misconceptions
- Some people believe that dogs only dig to bury bones or toys. This is not true. Dogs may dig for a variety of reasons, such as to find food, to cool off, to create a den, or to mark their territory.
- Others believe that there is nothing you can do to stop a dog from digging. This is also not true. There are a number of things you can do to address digging in dogs, such as providing them with a safe place to dig, redirecting their digging behavior, and training them not to dig.
Digging - Video Walkthrough
Steps to Address
Teaching Phase:
- Digging outside: Either e-collar or leash correct right when the dog begins to dig. This will help the dog to associate digging with an unpleasant consequence and will discourage them from doing it.
- Digging in crate/kennel: Depends on the dog's crate training. If the dog is not comfortable in their crate, you can start by feeding them treats or giving them toys in their crate to make it a more positive experience. Once the dog is comfortable in their crate, you can start to correct the digging behavior.
Reinforcing Phase:
- Outside: Set the dog up outside with soft dirt or soil to test if they will dig. If the dog does not dig, reward them with a treat or praise. This will help them to associate not digging with a positive consequence and will encourage them to continue not digging.
- Crate or kennel: Reward the dog when they are calm and not digging. You can also use a down command to help the dog stay calm in their crate.
Proofing Phase:
- Outside: Walk the dog around various ground or wet ground and see if they dig. If the dog does not dig, reward them. This will help to generalize the behavior and make it more likely that the dog will not dig in any situation.
- Crate/kennel: Watch the dog without the dog knowing and see if they dig when they are alone. If the dog does not dig, reward them. This will help to ensure that the dog is not digging when they are left alone in their crate.
Case Studies
- Case Study 1: Charlie is a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever who loves to dig. He digs in the yard, in the house, and even in the trash. His owners tried providing him with a sandbox, but he still dug in the yard. They then tried redirecting his digging behavior to playing fetch, but he would only play fetch for a short period of time before he went back to digging. Finally, they enrolled Charlie in a training class with a certified dog trainer, and this has helped the most. Charlie is now able to control his digging behavior and only digs in the sandbox.
- Case Study 2: Sadie is a 10-year-old Beagle who has always dug in her crate. Her owners tried providing her with a comfortable bed, but she still dug in her crate. They then tried covering her crate with a blanket, but she still dug. Finally, they consulted with a certified dog behaviorist, who recommended that they provide Sadie with a crate that is the right size for her and that they make sure that her crate is in a quiet and comfortable location. This has helped to reduce the amount of digging that Sadie does in her crate.
Pet Parent Coaching Tips
- Be patient. It takes time and patience to train a dog not to dig. Do not get discouraged if you do not see results immediately.
- Be consistent. Be consistent with your training and management, and do not give up.
- Be positive. Use positive reinforcement when the dog is not digging. This will help them learn that the desired behavior is rewarded.
- Do not punish the dog for digging. Punishment will only make the behavior worse.
Conclusion
Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can be a problem if it is done in inappropriate places. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can help your dog learn to control their digging behavior and dig in appropriate places.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What if my dog only digs when they are bored?
A: If your dog only digs when they are bored, you can provide them with more exercise and mental stimulation. This will help to reduce the amount of digging that they do.
- Q: What if my dog digs even though I have provided them with a safe place to dig?
A: If your dog digs even though you have provided them with a safe place to dig, you may need to consult with a certified dog behaviorist. There may be an underlying issue that is causing the digging behavior.