Dogs and Destructive Digging

Why do dogs dig?

Digging behavior in dogs can have a wide range of causes. For most dogs, digging is perfectly normal behavior. Digging can be self-rewarding and may occur when dogs are left unsupervised and without any other activities or favored toys to keep them busy. Puppies and highly energetic dogs may be at risk. This digging behavior is similar to destructive chewing (see the handout “Dogs and Destructive Chewing” for more information).

"Digging can be done to accomplish a goal that, to a dog, is reasonable."

Digging can be done to accomplish a goal that, to a dog, is reasonable. Dogs may dig to bury or retrieve bones or other treasures. On a very hot summer day, dogs, especially heavily coated or Northern breeds (e.g., Siberian husky, Alaskan malamute) may dig deep holes to lie down in to cool off. Terriers that have been bred to flush out prey are prone to digging as they search. With their ability to hear high-frequency sounds and their highly acute sense of smell, some dogs dig in response to sounds and odors, such as those from voles and moles beneath the ground. Pregnant dogs may dig to prepare a nest for their litter.

Sometimes, digging reflects an underlying behavioral disorder. Some dogs exhibit high levels of frustration when confined and may dig to escape. They may also be motivated by something on the other side of the barrier or become distressed because they have been left alone.

How can I determine why my dog is digging and what can I do about it?

To determine the motivation for your dog’s digging, you might need to do a little digging yourself. Think about when the behavior occurs and whether there is a goal your dog might be trying to accomplish.

1. If the behavior occurs when your dog is outside unsupervised with no favorite toys, then chances are she is satisfying a need to explore and play. Increase supervision to reduce the opportunity for her to engage in this self-rewarding behavior. If you notice your dog digging while you are on watch, find a distraction to interrupt the behavior. For instance, you might toss a toy and begin a game of fetch. If you do not have time to play, just call your dog over and reward that wonderful recall. Then, spend a minute asking for some fun behaviors that can earn treats. If you plan to stay outside, keep your dog from returning to the digging spot.

Another option is to create an area where your dog is allowed to dig. Choose a spot where you can place soft, loose dirt and use fencing or railroad ties to delineate the location. Bury toys that your dog would enjoy—begin with the toys only partly underground, then deeper next time. Supervise while training so you can consistently direct your dog to the appropriate location. Be sure your dog has plenty of fun games to play outside. Provide appropriate toys and rotate them so they stay interesting. Limit the amount of unsupervised time she spends outside. Before you let her outdoors, provide sufficient social enrichment (e.g., play, training) and exercise. For most dogs, leash walks provide opportunities to interact with people and appreciate the many scents along the way.

Note: Avoid letting your dog watch you dig (e.g., gardening), as dogs can learn through observation.

2. If your dog digs large holes to rest in on warm days, she may be trying to cool off. This behavior may resolve if you can provide your dog with an equally suitable location to stay cool and comfortable. Create a shaded shelter with a suitable substrate in a cool area. You may try a cot that allows airflow from underneath or create a patio with some cool, flat stones. Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water. On very hot days, it is best to bring your dog inside.

3. If your dog creates many relatively small holes or tracks, particularly if she actively sniffs while digging, she is likely hunting. For some dogs, the predatory drive is very strong, and they may always dig if there are animals to pursue. Limit your dog’s unsupervised outside time and encourage alternative activities, such as fetch, to satisfy your dog’s drive to pursue a reward. Another option is to create scavenger hunts by hiding caches of toys or food. Then bring your dog back inside before any digging begins.

"...encourage alternative activities, such as fetch, to satisfy your dog’s drive to pursue a reward."

4. If your dog consistently digs near a barrier, she may be experiencing confinement frustration. Frustration can be related to the inability to access something on the other side of the barrier. For example, if your dog digs near the fence when people or animals are on the other side, and particularly if she also barks in this situation, the digging may be related to territorial behavior.

To manage this digging, limit the amount of time your dog is outside if you expect there are triggers outside the fence. Go outside with your dog when these triggers are expected and, if she starts to rush to the fence, call your dog for some treats before any digging begins, then ask for a “sit” and continue to reward a quiet “sit and stay” until the trigger has passed.

5. Some dogs dig only when left alone, which may reflect separation-related distress. Dogs that are distressed when alone may exhibit anxiety and/or frustration and may dig in random areas or direct their digging to a barrier in an attempt to escape.

If your dog is outside all day and digs, you do need to ask yourself if keeping her inside may be better. This is particularly true for the dog that digs to escape from the yard or confinement area. If you are unable to keep your dog inside, you may need to address those problems first.

What else can be done if destructive digging continues when I am not around to supervise?

When you are unable to supervise your dog, housing her indoors is the most practical solution until she learns to be outdoors without digging. If you would like to continue leaving your dog outdoors and she can easily tolerate being placed in a confined area, confine her to an area such as a pen or run. The floor of the run can be covered with gravel or patio tiles or have an asphalt or concrete floor to prevent digging. Comfortable bedding, shelter, and fresh water should be provided.

Of course, it will be necessary to provide sufficient exercise and stimulation before confining your dog and she should have an adequate number of treats and toys in the run to keep her occupied. Dogs should never be left outside in extreme weather conditions.

Should I punish my dog for digging?

Although punishment can stop a behavior, it is not recommended for managing digging. Punishment does not address the underlying motivation for a behavior and can therefore lead to frustration and anxiety. This is particularly problematic for dogs that are digging because they are already distressed. Another problem is that punishment, including the use of booby-traps or other deterrents, can cause long-lasting fear.

Appropriate management that includes supervision and provision of adequate enrichment can treat and prevent digging. If you are not sure why your dog is digging, ask your veterinarian or behaviorist to help you get to the source of the behavior.