Dogs enjoy sniffing, chewing, barking, playing and of course, digging. It is part of what dogs do. According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, digging is a species-specific behaviour.
All dogs are meant to be kept mentally and physically stimulated throughout their day. By not allowing a dog to perform what comes naturally would be denying them of being a dog.
A bored dog or one who is denied the opportunity to express their inherent behaviours can develop other common behaviour problems. Allowing your dog to be a dog will automatically lead to a happier, well-adjusted canine companion.
How do you manage the act of digging?
The answer is pretty simple. Create a “legal digging patch” in your garden. Fill it with different sand or soil from the rest of the garden so that your pup can identify their VIP digging zone.
It is also good to encourage your dogs to dig in their own patch by hiding their favourite chew toys, balls or smelly treats in it. This way, your doggo will remain mentally and physically stimulated.
Positive reinforcement
If they do wander off to dig elsewhere, gently redirect them back to their VIP digging patch and use a cue, like “go dig” and reward them with treats for digging where they are meant to.
They may need quite a bit of encouragement at first, but soon, they will get the hang of it. Keep their digging patch fun and reinforcing for them by keeping it stocked up regularly with tasty treat treasures and toys.
Try to remain patient and not get upset with them if they get it wrong at first. It is a learning curve for them.
Also read:
Daughter and dog are showing me all my days – and I love it!
Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA