Digging is a common complaint for dog owners. The problem is, digging comes very natural for many dogs. As a matter of fact terriers are named for Terra, as in Latin for “earth.” They are literally called “earth dogs” — and it’s not because they are environmentally friendly. Digging is frequently a “hard-wired” behavior in dogs and stopping it is literally trying to stop a dog’s natural tendencies. So….
Instead of Fighting the Instinct to Dig, Harness It!
One of the most effective ways to deal with instinctual dog behavior like digging is to give a dog a way to do it that is not disruptive. My favorite is to set up a “digging pit” somewhere and then convince the dog that digging there is more rewarding than around the petunias.
Either purchase a sandbox or dig a hole and fill it with sand. (Sand is a lot easier to clean up than soil.) If you decide to go with a hole, it may be helpful to line it with plastic sheeting. Then, hide some toys in the sand and show your dog his new place to dig!
Start out making the hidden goodies easy to find and then work your way up to making it more and more difficult. Make it a game, and be sure to spend some time with your dog. Which is a nice segway to the next point…..
Idle Paws are the Devil’s Digger!
In detective fiction we frequently read or hear about “motive and opportunity.” We covered motive for digging, now you need to deal with the opportunity! Are you leaving a “known offender” alone in your yard? Leaving your dog alone outside is not a good idea for a lot of reasons, but leaving a bonafide digger alone is just asking for it.
Left to their own devices, dogs may not choose the recreation activities we would prefer. Trying playing with your dog instead of leaving him alone. Trying using toys and games to exercise his mind and redirect his desire to dig.
Training Can Help
Even when you are with your dog, his eyes may wander over to those petunias. This is a prime opportunity to train him to leave things alone on cue. That, along with some work on impulse control, will make it easier to redirect your dog’s attention to more productive pursuits.
Digging can be a big nuisance, but it’s not an insurmountable problem. Try these steps and remember: enjoy your time with your dog. That why’s you got him!
Weekend Update March 12, 2010
Patience is a virtue
Let’s start with an uplifting story about a man who was reunited with his dog after two years.
On the other hand, a few weeks ago the Wall Street Journal had story about a Marine service dog suffering from PTSD. The more we learn, the more the similarities between people and animals become apparent.
On that note, a panel assembled by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) discussed dolphins and how their intelligence (at least according to some research) may rival those of humans and what sort of ethical challenges that may present. Unfortunately the full version of the article is only available to subscribers. Here are some dolphin facts though:
So, maybe we should be treating them better?
Research has a dark side too, and the source of animals for research can be very controversial. Some research is supported by “Class B” dealers that have a sordid history of misconduct. Fortunately, this may be coming to an end.
There’s been some great news on the Breed Specific Legislation front. Elgin IL has passed a dangerous dog bill that does not include any breed specific language. One city at a time, folks.