There
are a variety of ways to stop dogs digging in the garden - in this
article we will discuss a variety of different methods that owners use
to cure this problem.
- A good place to start
is to discover the reasons behind your dogs digging problems. A common
cause for this behavioral problem is due to separation
anxiety. This reasonably common
problem can also manifest itself with other destructive behavior such
as chewing, barking and over anxious behavior.
- Is your dog bored?
Boredom is a common factor when it comes to this problem. Make sure
that your dog is well stimulated - exercise is a great way to get your
dog tired out and less prone to wanting to dig holes in the garden.
Exercise is also a great way for you to build your relationship and is
considered by some experts - such as Cesar
Millan as a great dog training
tool.
- Don't give your dog
the opportunity to dig holes in the garden. Don't leave dog that digs
holes alone outside as this is just asking for problems (at least wait
until you have set up some obstacles that will encourage him not to
dig). Why not start by fencing off the area that is most often dug
up.
- You could also divert
your
dogs attention to another area and then reinforce that area with
treats. Build a small Sand Pit and reward your dog for digging in that
area. Start by burying a treat, toy or bone in the area and let your
dog see you do it - the reward will be the treat at the end of the dig.
- If your dog just loves
digging holes don't let him see you gardening or digging holes as this
may reinforce the negative behavior.
- If you are not able to
supervise a dog that likes to dig holes try placing him in the Crate -
remember the Crate can be used as a training too and should not be used
as a punishment.
- Some people like to
use negative reinforcement tools like burying a Balloon. This works by
making a loud noise when it pops - we don't advocate this method to
stop dogs digging but wanted to mention that it is a method that is
used.
- Another method used by
some owners is to bury chicken mesh where your dog digs - the feeling
of the mesh on your dog's paws is unpleasant (not painful). Again we
don't use this method but wanted to mention it.
- You can also purchase
some products from pet stores that can alleviate the problem.
