Do you have a dog at home that simply has to dig? Have you ever wondered why?
Animal behaviourist Dr. Fre Hurly joined Bec and Asa on Drive to discuss dogs that dig and how to best handle it.
Why Dogs Dig
Dr. Fre began by talking about the reasons dogs dig.
“The type of breed plays quite a big role, especially with genetics instinct, hunting instinct, they are bred to look for badgers and rabbits. So yeah, they are good diggers.”
Dogs like to investigate and will often just be following an interesting scent.
Cooling Down
“It could be for or coolness, comfort, so like making an area which is cooler sand underneath the hot sand, for example.”
Digging can provide a birthing area for mothers.
“I’ve seen substantial nests, like massive holes, which is a bit excessive, but yes, before giving birth. Also, maybe if they have anxiety and they’re trying to escape from that or separation anxiety and try and get out of the yard for that reason.”
Buried Bones
A major reason dogs dig is to uncover something they once buried such as food or toys that they want to keep for later. Unfortunately dogs will also uncover freshly planted greens, simply if there’s nothing to do.
“Digging is actually normal behaviour. I mean, dogs dig, it’s just that we don’t like it, except of course if it’s due to anxiety or stress, trying to escape from something or follow somebody.”
When to Worry
Dr. Fre said you would see other signs of stress if the dog was actually able to escape through digging. Other than that, it is typical behaviour.
“Your holes would be then by the fence or by a door or by an escape area. It wouldn’t be in the middle of the yard. It would be an attempt to dig underneath something or to get out.”
How to Handle the Holes
“First, we have to accept that all dogs can and might dig. The best way to do that is by making a designated digging patch for them.”
Simple steps to create a digging patch:
- Loosen the top, up to 50cm of soil
- Hide some treats
- Positively reinforce visits there
- Give them an intentional outlet
Dr. Fre said plenty of exercise can help to prevent excessive digging. she also warned that piles of loose dirt all over the yard can be inviting to them.
“That’s lethal, because that smell, they’re just going to go for it. If it’s to make a nest, provide, nesting material, or if it’s for comfort, for coolness, allow that. But if it’s just generally just digging for pleasure and exploration, rather just give them that outlet.”
Check out the full chat with Dr. Fre Hurly below.