Playful Tails

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” Roger Caras

Why Do Dogs Dig?


There are several different reasons why a dog will dig. Dogs will dig to create a cool and comfortable spot to lay, particularly in warmer weather when it is hot in the open sun and the ground is very warm. The ground is cooler a few inches below the surface, so a dog may dig down to create a place to cool off. Also, if your dog doesn't have a soft place to lay, he may dig to mold the ground to fit his body, making a more comfortable resting area. It's not abnormal for a dog to dig several different pits around the yard - he'll want to be able to lay in the shade, so as the sun moves, he'll move to a different spot because it is cooler.

SOLUTION: Provide your dog with soft, cool bedding in a spot that's always shady. Or try making him a digging pit. It's much easier to teach a dog to dig in a certain spot than it is to teach him to stop digging all together.

Dogs will also dig if they smell or hear something underground, wanting to find the source. Maybe there's a small animal or insect burrowing, or something is buried underground - either way, this is simply “curious digging”. Breeds such as terriers and hounds that have been bred to hunt, track, and burrow after their prey are especially prone to this type of digging. It's not your dog's fault, but rather an instinctual urge they are exhibiting.

SOLUTION: Watch your dog when he's out in the yard. If you catch him digging a tunnel to the center of the earth, say "NO" and then give him something else to do. (Playing fetch, chewing on a toy, chasing you playfully, etc.) Occupying his mind and keeping him busy are the best solutions, plus it’s a good opportunity for you to bond further with your pet.

Your dog is bored? We can teach you some fun games you can play with them.

It's everyone ready for bed? Because I'm NOT! Play time!