Why Do Dogs Dig? Reasons, Fixes and Digging Zones

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Digging is one of the most destructive things dogs do to a garden, but it is also deeply natural.

Instinct and breed

Dogs have dug for denning, hunting and storing food for ages. Terriers were bred to dig after prey, dachshunds to follow badgers, and northern breeds such as huskies dig to make cool dens. If your dog has these breeds in his background, expect digging.

Common reasons dogs dig

• Boredom: digging is entertaining and self-rewarding.
• Hunting prey: moles, voles and insects below the ground.
• Cooling off: dogs dig shallow holes to lie in cool soil. See dog hot weather safety.
• Warmth or shelter: in cold or windy weather.
• Escape: digging under fences to roam, chase or find company.
• Anxiety: digging when left alone, or in storms.
• Hiding items: burying bones and toys.
• Comfort: making a nest.

Work out why

Keep a record of when and where your dog digs. Holes along the fence line suggest escape. Digging under shrubs on hot days suggests cooling. Digging near plants with smells suggests prey.

Fixes

1. Increase exercise and sniffing. See why do dogs sniff everything.
2. Provide enrichment with chews and puzzles. See why do dogs chew everything.
3. Supervise time outside.
4. Offer shade, water and a cool spot in hot weather.
5. Create a digging zone.
6. Pest control if prey is an issue, using pet-safe methods.

Building a digging zone

Pick a corner of the yard, mark it with a border, and loosen the soil or fill a sandbox. Bury toys and treats. Encourage your dog to dig there with praise and rewards. When he digs elsewhere, calmly redirect him. Consistency is key.

Preventing escape digging

• Bury fencing a foot or more below the ground.
• Add a concrete footing or rocks along the base.
• Do not leave dogs unsupervised in the yard.
• Check for what is drawing the dog out: roaming, boredom or fear.
• Make sure ID tags and microchips are up to date.

Safety concerns

Dogs may dig up and eat toxic plants or fertilizer. Keep hazardous items out of reach. Holes can injure legs, so fill them when possible. If your dog eats soil, ask your vet.

When to seek help

If digging is frantic, with destructive behavior or signs of panic, see your vet and a behaviorist. See when to see a dog behaviorist.

Common mistakes

• Punishing after the fact.
• Filling holes with feces or other deterrents, which can harm the dog.
• Leaving the dog out for hours.
• Skipping exercise.

Troubleshooting

• Digging only in one spot: may be prey or cool soil.
• Digging in the house: may be anxiety, boredom or nesting.
• Digging after rain: worms and smells attract him.

A simple plan

1. Observe and note the reason.
2. Add exercise and puzzles.
3. Create a digging zone and reward it.
4. Secure the fence.
5. Reassess after two weeks.

Digging by season

Digging often rises in summer, when dogs seek cool soil, and in spring, when scents and wildlife are active. In autumn, some dogs bury items, and in winter, they may dig for warmth or to chase burrowing prey. Anticipate seasonal changes by adjusting shade, enrichment and supervision in your yard.

Indoor digging

Dogs may also dig at beds, carpets or couches, usually as nesting behavior or boredom. Offer a thick blanket they can rearrange, and provide a digging box indoors if needed. If indoor digging is frantic or paired with other signs of stress, talk to your vet and a behavior professional.

The takeaway

Digging is natural. Give your dog a safe outlet, meet his needs and protect your garden.