You walk outside and see the dirt flying. Your dog is happily buried halfway into the garden or has left a crater in your once-perfect lawn. For many dog owners, digging can be frustrating, confusing, and sometimes destructive. But for your dog, it’s not misbehavior—it’s instinct. Digging is a natural canine behavior with deep evolutionary roots. Understanding the why behind it is the first step to addressing it in a way that respects your dog’s needs while preserving your yard. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons dogs dig, what it tells us about their mental and emotional state, and how to redirect the behavior constructively without punishment
Instinct Runs Deep: Why Dogs Are Born to Dig
Digging is in your dog’s DNA. Wild canines have always used digging as a survival tool—to find food, to build shelter, or to stay cool. These natural instincts haven’t disappeared with domestication. Even if your dog has a cozy bed and regular meals, the drive to dig can remain. Certain breeds are especially prone to digging, particularly terriers, hounds, and working dogs bred for burrowing, tracking, or guarding. But even mixed breeds and couch-loving companions may feel the urge now and then. When a dog digs, it’s often not about being “bad”—it’s about being a dog
Common Reasons Dogs Dig
1. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation
A dog left alone in the yard with nothing to do may start digging simply to entertain themselves. It’s a form of self-stimulation that keeps them engaged when no other activity is available
2. Seeking Comfort or Temperature Regulation
Dogs may dig a shallow hole to create a cool or warm place to rest. In hot weather, the soil beneath the surface is cooler and provides relief. In cold climates, dogs may dig to find shelter from the wind
3. Hunting or Tracking Scents
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell. If they detect a scent underground—like small animals, insects, or leftover food—they may dig to investigate or attempt to catch what they believe is there
4. Instinctive Nesting Behavior
Female dogs, even those who are spayed, may dig as part of a nesting instinct. This can be especially common before rest or sleep and is not necessarily related to pregnancy
5. Escape Attempts
If your dog is digging near fences or gates, they may be trying to escape. This could be to chase something, explore, or reunite with a person or animal they’re bonded to. Escape digging is often a sign of unmet emotional or physical needs
6. Stress or Anxiety Relief
Digging can be a coping mechanism for dogs feeling anxious or overstimulated. It offers a physical outlet for emotional tension. This is more likely when the dog is left alone for long hours or in an environment that feels unstable or overstimulating
Should You Stop Your Dog from Digging?
It depends. Occasional digging in a corner of the yard, especially when the dog is supervised and not harming anything, can be completely harmless. However, if the behavior is damaging property, causing injury to the dog, or becoming compulsive, it’s worth addressing. The goal is not to eliminate digging entirely (which may be unrealistic), but to redirect it in healthier ways that work for both of you
How to Redirect Digging Behavior
Provide Physical and Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is a digging dog. Increase your dog’s daily exercise with longer walks, playtime, and structured activities like fetch or agility. Include mental enrichment such as puzzle toys, sniff walks, or new training exercises. A tired brain and body reduce the urge to dig
Designate a Digging Zone
One of the most effective strategies is to create a dedicated digging spot. Choose a part of the yard where it’s okay for your dog to dig. Bury toys or treats there to encourage use. Praise your dog when they dig in that area. Over time, they’ll learn that “digging here = good” while other areas are off-limits
Block Access to Favorite Dig Sites
If your dog always digs in the same spot (like flower beds or under fences), consider using deterrents. Large rocks, chicken wire under the soil, or safe pet deterrent sprays can help discourage access. Pair this with redirection to a digging zone or a toy
Supervise Outdoor Time
Until your dog learns boundaries, supervision is essential. Don’t just open the door and let them roam for hours. Spend time outside with them, reward good behavior, and gently interrupt unwanted digging by calling them away or offering a more appropriate activity
Address Emotional Triggers
If digging is related to separation anxiety, escape attempts, or stress, it’s important to deal with the root cause. Provide a structured daily routine, consistent human interaction, and a safe indoor space. In some cases, a behaviorist may help if the digging is compulsive or anxiety-driven
What NOT to Do
- Don’t punish after the fact: Dogs won’t associate your anger with something they did minutes or hours ago. This can damage trust without changing behavior
- Don’t use harsh corrections: Yelling, spraying, or physically stopping your dog may only increase stress and drive the behavior underground—literally and emotionally
- Don’t ignore context: Digging may be your dog’s way of communicating an unmet need. Always look at the bigger picture before correcting
Breeds More Prone to Digging
If you have one of the following breeds, some level of digging is almost guaranteed:
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Beagle
- Dachshund
- Siberian Husky
- Alaskan Malamute
- Border Collie
- German Shepherd
- Australian Cattle Dog
These dogs often require extra stimulation and structured outlets for their instincts. Don’t try to suppress their nature—instead, work with it
Turning Digging into a Positive Outlet
Believe it or not, digging can be turned into a game or structured activity. Some ideas:
- Sandboxes for dogs: Fill with sand or soil and bury safe toys
- Treasure hunts: Hide frozen treats or favorite items in shallow holes
- Digging mats: Use indoor digging toys that simulate the digging experience without the mess
- Beach days: Let your dog dig freely in a safe, natural setting when appropriate
Final Thoughts
Digging is more than just a messy habit—it’s a form of communication, instinct, and self-expression. Instead of seeing it as a problem to eliminate, see it as a need to be understood. By recognizing why your dog digs and offering safe, structured alternatives, you can protect your garden while honoring your dog’s nature. Remember, a fulfilled dog is a well-behaved dog—and every behavior has a purpose, even if it starts with dirt flying through the air