Pet Dogs Information

It is seen that digging is an inherent quality present in a dog. As a dog-owner, the question often comes to the mind as to "Why does my dog dig" ? "What exactly is he looking for while he digs" ? "Is he looking for some hidden treasure" ? "How can one control this habit in his dog" ? Sometimes, a dog digs to such an extent that it might reduce your beautifully kept garden to rubble without even realizing what he has done. This frustrates the dog owner and his bonding with the loved companion might be put to danger. But, one should not get baffled when the pet digs. Digging is quite natural when it comes to your canine companion. His digging can go on untiringly for many reasons. I

In thefollowing article we have discussed the points to help you understand this strange behavioral pattern in your dog and also learn how to curb this habit of his.

Why do Dogs Dig ?

The following reasons might be responsible for digging by your dog: 

• The smell of fresh dirt attracts him. He is also aroused by the smell of mud, fertilizers, manure or plantings.
• Sometimes, he feels bored and neglected and looks for something to occupy himself with.
• He seldom looks for little critters which are generally available in the garden.
• Lack of proper exercise is also a reason. In this case he digs so as to dispel his excess energy.
• Sometimes, he tries to grab your attention.
• He needs a personalized shelter so that he can escape from the various climatic conditions.
• Sometimes, he wants to have fun.
• He wants to store his toys, food and other hunts.

How to Stop your Dog from Digging ?

Following are the steps to prevent your dog from digging:

• Some dirt along with chicken wire may be burried near his digging area. The sensation he gets while his paws scrape the wires should prevent him from digging.
• The pet dog may be confined in a crate or may be leashed, when you are not near him (till the time you have successfully curbed his digging habit).
• It is a good idea to cover his digging hole with his own poop. This will greatly discourage him to dig further. However this solution varies with breed.
• It is not wise to dig earth while gardening in front of the dog. This scene simply motivates him to imitate you and dig.
• Its better to get rid of rodents and little critters in your garden.
• The dog should be properly exercised daily so that he remains mentally and physically stimulated and he does not have to use his extra energy in this bad habit.
• You can hide some water balloons in the holes. This will make the ballons pop in his face and make him associate negative feeling with the act of digging.
• Freshly tilled soil should be kept out of your dog's reach. The area may be fenced if required.
• A sand box may be made and filled with freshly tilled earth and dog treats. This will make the dog dig in the box without wrecking your garden.
• Various entertainment diversions should be provided to the dog, so that he is not bored and thus, forced to dig.
• The dog needs to be provided with proper shelter and this needs to be regulated with the various climatic changes.
• Its a witty idea to wet the dog with a water hose whenever he tries to dig the garden. This will alert him that what he is doing is inappropriate.

You may try these above mentioned tips and tricks to curb your dog's digging habits. Reprimand him whenever you find him digging. But, physical punishments should never be given. It will take time on the part of the dog to understand that what he is doing is unacceptable. It is to be kept in mind that some primitive breeds of dog dig just for the sake of digging. If this is the case, then, it is very difficult to curtail this habit in them.

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