Understanding Digging Behavior
Is your pup in the doghouse for digging? Digging can be a destructive and frustrating behavior. Of course, all dogs dig to an extent and it is important to understand that, but when your dog had begun to dig up your flower garden or is trying to dig his way out of an enclosure, it can become a very big problem. If your dog is able to succeed in digging his way out of a fenced-in yard, he could be in danger, so it is important that you learn how to put a stop to this right away.
Causes of Digging
If you have not already done so it is a good idea to take your dog to the vet for a thorough check-up. Many dog owners never realize it but it could be that your dog’s digging is related to some sort of medical problem related to the paws or feet and this is your dog’s way of trying to relieve the problem. Once any health problems have been ruled out you can then begin to consider other possible causes.
Many dogs dig as a way to seek comfort. For example, if the weather is hot then your dog may try to dig a whole in which he can cool himself off. If you have seen your dog happily wallowing around in a hole he has dug, that is likely the case. In other situations, dogs dig because they want to bury their possessions, such as a toy or bone, to protect them.
You must also consider that your dog’s digging could be a form of escapism. If your dog is bored or sees something on the other side of an obstruction, such as a fence, that looks interesting to him he may try to dig his way out. This is simply not acceptable and could also be dangerous for your dog, so it is crucial to put a stop to it as quickly as possible.
Obedience training can help in many improper behaviors, so it is important to start a solid foundation with your dog. Consult an obedience training guide such as The Complete D.I.Y dog training Package. Keep in mind that some breeds of dogs are just more prone to digging than others. Terriers, for example, are notorious for digging. If that is the case, you may need to strengthen your fencing because you may not be able to completely put a stop to your dog’s digging.
