Why Do Dogs Dig?

You know the sound all too well. Paws scratching at fabric. Maybe it’s the fabric of a brand new sofa or your favorite blanket. Your beloved pup is at it again – digging. And, while your dog is having the time of his life, you’re becoming stressed, maybe even angry and frustrated. The key to calming the situation is to understand why dogs dig.

Why does your dog dig? Well, it could be one of several reasons, including: It’s a natural instinct.

Domesticated dogs still have some of their wild counterpart’s traits in them. Digging is simply a natural instinct. You can ensure your dog doesn’t engage in destructive digging by providing him with plenty of toys and taking him on several walks daily to provide him with the mental and physical stimulation that is necessary to keep him happy. Some people block off a space in their garden with fencing and allow their dog to safely dig in that space to satisfy his natural urges to dig.

He’s a born hunter.

Some breeds – such as the terrier and the dachshund – are born hunters. They put their nose to the ground wherever they go outdoors in an attempt to pick up the scent of prey. Oftentimes their prey is burrowed deep in the ground requiring the dog to dig to get at it. Your dog may dig because he smells the scent of prey.

He’s bored.

Dogs are a lot like people. Boredom can result in both dogs and humans turning to destructive behavior. In your dog’s case, that behavior may be digging the furniture, the carpets, the back garden, anywhere your pooch can relieve his frustration through digging. Make sure your dog has plenty of toys, a lot of attention, and sufficient exercise to help prevent him from becoming perpetually bored.

He just wants to be with you.

Those dogs who suffer from separation anxiety may dig to try to escape the house when their family leaves. Let’s say your dog has separation anxiety. He may follow you to the door when you leave the house. After you close the door behind you, he may begin to dig at the carpet,and the door, whining and crying as he tries to reach you. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most effective ways to deal with separation anxiety.

He wants to escape.

Dogs don’t always like being confined for too long, especially if it is in a small space. Your dog may start digging to escape his surroundings. Or, if he’s playing in the garden, he may see another dog walk by or a cat dart past him and he just wants to get to that dog or cat to check her out.

If you want to curb your dog’s digging, start by determining why he is digging. Once you know why he’s digging, you can find an effective way to deter that behavior by redirecting his attention elsewhere.

Does your dog dig? What does he like to dig?