Digging is a normal behaviour for dogs. It can be fun, a way to use up energy, or an outlet for big feelings. Many people become frustrated or concerned when their dog digs, especially if it damages the garden, creates trip hazards, or allows their dog to escape from the yard.

Understanding why your dog is digging is the first step to changing the behaviour. Find out what your dog gets from digging so you can provide other activities that meet the same need without wrecking the lawn.

Get curious about your dog's behaviour by asking questions such as:

• Do they dig every day, or only on days they don't go for a walk?
• Are there certain areas or types of soil they prefer?
• Are there places they never dig?
• Are they usually alone when they dig?
• How long are they left alone?
• Are there dogs, wildlife, or people on the other side of the fence?

Looking at when, where, and why your dog digs can help you choose the right training approach.

Dogs may dig because they are:

• Having fun
• Bored
• Releasing stress
• Using up energy or getting exercise
• Creating a cool place to lie down in hot weather
• Hiding bones, treats, or leftover food
• Trying to escape
• Following the scent of an animal or object underground

If your dog only digs when you're not watching, they may have been punished for digging in the past. Instead of stopping the behaviour, punishment can teach dogs to dig only when people aren't around.

Digging is a normal dog behaviour. Punishing your dog can make them fearful of you and doesn't teach them what you would like them to do instead. Focus on understanding why they're digging and providing other ways to meet that need.

Block access to their digging spots

If your dog is digging in an area where you don't want them to dig, temporarily block access to that spot while they're learning. This prevents them from practising the behaviour.

You can use puppy pens, chicken wire, or stakes with shade cloth to create a barrier. Make sure it's secure and high enough that your dog can't jump over it.

This is especially helpful for new puppies or recently adopted dogs, as it helps prevent unwanted digging from becoming a habit.

Provide multiple cool resting spots

If your dog is digging to create a cool place to lie down, give them other ways to stay comfortable.

Provide several shady places to rest, and consider using a cooling mat or a paddling pool where they can cool their feet on hot days.

Supervise them 

Spend time in the yard with your dog and watch how they use the space. Notice where they play, sniff, go to the toilet and dig. This can help you understand why they're digging and plan activities that meet the same need.

If your dog starts digging somewhere you don't want them to, interrupt the behaviour with a positive cue such as "Pup, pup!" or a squeaky toy. Then immediately redirect them to an appropriate activity, or an area where digging is allowed.

Train your dog to chill in the yard 

If your dog is digging because they're trying to reach something on the other side of the fence, such as another animal, block access to that area to prevent them from doing it. 

Spend short periods in the yard rewarding your dog for calm behaviour when their triggers are present. You can also offer long-lasting chews or enrichment toys, such as a lick mat or puzzle feeder, to help them relax while they're outside.

Meet their needs 

Dogs are less likely to dig in unwanted places when their physical and emotional needs are being met. Make sure your dog gets:

• Plenty of quality sleep
• Regular exercise
• Opportunities to use their brain through training, play and enrichment activities

If you're unsure what's driving your dog's digging, seek help from a qualified professional. A positive reinforcement trainer can help identify the cause of the behaviour and develop a plan that works for both you and your dog.

Teach your dog to use a digging pit

Digging can be a fun and rewarding activity for dogs who need to blow off some steam, or who love to hunt. If possible, instead of trying to stop them from digging altogether, provide a pit for them, and teach them where it's okay to dig. 

• Set up a section of the yard that’s okay for your dog to dig in, like in the back corner
• Or use a shell pool or other large container and fill it with dirt or sand
• Place some treats, or a toy they like, just under the dirt 
• Encourage your dog to dig what you buried
• Once your dog understands the game, add a cue such as "Dig!" by pointing to the digging pit. Praise and reward them for digging in the correct place.

Prevent escaping

If your dog is digging under fences or gates to escape when left alone, consider keeping them inside the house if they're comfortable there.

Dogs may try to escape because they're anxious, bored, or trying to reach something outside the yard. Understanding the reason for the behaviour will help you choose the best solution.

If you think your dog may be distressed when left alone, read our Separation-Related Distress guide.