How to Stop Your Dog From Digging Up the Yard

Dogs dig for a variety of reasons from boredom to instinctual behavior and your yard might be the focus of their digging.  While some breeds are more prone to digging than others, it can be frustrating to find your yard torn up regularly. Fortunately, with patience and the right strategies, you can curb your dog's digging habits and protect your outdoor space. And mud in your home!

Below are some tips to help you curb your dog’s digging tendencies:

1. Identify the Cause of Digging

Before you can effectively stop your dog from digging, it’s important to understand why your dog is doing it. Some common reasons why your dog is digging could include boredom, excess energy, seeking comfort, hunting instincts, and even separation anxiety. Dogs that are left alone for long periods or that don’t get enough physical and mental stimulation are more likely to dig as a way to entertain themselves.

Certain breeds, like terriers, have a strong instinct to dig, especially if they were bred for hunting small animals underground. By identifying the cause, you can tailor your approach to stopping the behavior.

2. Provide More Exercise and Mental Stimulation

One of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from digging is to make sure your dog is getting gets plenty of exercise. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like digging. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys can help burn off excess energy.

Mental stimulation is just as important—try puzzle toys, scent games, or training sessions to keep their mind engaged. If your dog is digging out of boredom, increasing their daily activity can significantly reduce the behavior.

Some dog even like to dig up the trash – and the solution to his behavior is very similar to your yard.

3. Prevent Access to Favorite Digging Spots

If your dog tends to dig in certain areas of the yard, make these spots less appealing. You can cover them with rocks, decorative fencing, or even chicken wire to discourage digging. Some dog parents find success using deterrents like citrus peels or vinegar, as dogs generally dislike these scents. If your dog is digging near fences in an attempt to escape, make sure they are secure and provide alternative activities to keep them entertained.

4. Designate a Digging Area

If your dog has a strong urge to dig, consider providing your dog with a designated digging spot. This could be a sandbox or a specific section of your yard where digging is allowed. Encourage your dog to use this area by burying toys or treats and rewarding them when they dig there. Redirecting their behavior rather than trying to eliminate it entirely can be a more effective and stress-free solution, especially for breeds with a natural instinct to dig.

5. Keep Your Dog Cool and Comfortable

Dogs sometimes dig to create a cool spot to lie down in hot weather. If you notice your dog digging on warm days, make sure they have access to shade and fresh water. Providing a cooling mat or a designated shady area to relax can prevent them from turning to the dirt for relief. For dogs that dig in winter, they may be trying to stay warm and therefore it is important that they have proper shelter to keep them comfortable in all seasons.

6. Address Anxiety and Stress

Dogs experiencing anxiety, stress, or separation issues may turn to digging as a coping mechanism. If your dog tends to dig when left alone, they may be dealing with separation anxiety. Providing enrichment, such as frozen treats or chew toys, before you leave can help ease their anxiety. In severe cases, you may need to work on gradual desensitization techniques or seek advice from a professional dog trainer.

7. Avoid Punishment for Digging

It’s important to avoid punishing your dog for digging, as this can create confusion and fear. Instead, focus on redirecting the behavior and providing positive reinforcement when they engage in appropriate activities. Dogs respond best to training methods that reward desired behaviors, so consistency and patience will yield better results than punishment.

What About Puppies?

Puppies are naturally curious and may dig as they explore their environment. Their digging is often playful rather than destructive, but it’s still important to guide them toward appropriate behaviors early on. Providing plenty of toys, structured playtime, and a designated digging area can help set boundaries.

Supervision is key—if you catch your puppy digging, redirect them to a toy or a different activity rather than scolding them. By reinforcing good habits from a young age, you can prevent digging from becoming a long-term problem.

To effectively stop your dog from digging requires understanding the root cause and addressing their needs. Whether it’s providing more exercise, creating a designated digging area, or keeping them comfortable in extreme weather, a combination of strategies will help curb the behavior. It is important to be patient and consistent to stop your dog from digging up the yard for good.