Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. Some dig for fun, out of boredom, because they are trying to escape (typically unneutered males), or even to bury treasured items. Unfortunately most dogs tend to dig where we, their beloved humans, don't want them to. What's the solution here?
Boredom and Instinctive Digging
This one is unbelievably simple: Take your dog for a walk. More than once a day, more than just a walk. By wearing your dog's energy out, he'll be too tired to dig anywhere, much less where he's not supposed to. I'm quite serious, play with your dog, don't let him get bored. A tired dog is a good dog.
Escape Artist Digging
Bury your fence, or use a cement base for your base, and neuter your male, if indeed he is an unneutered male. Males can scent a female in heat from miles away and will do anything to get to her. The best solution, if this is your problem, is to neuter your male or keep him secured to yourself when he's outside.
All Other Digging
Redirection works well, if you catch him in the act of tearing up your lawn. Get his attention, and give him something fun to do, even sit, down, up training sessions, with plenty of treats and praise.
There are repellent products available if your dog's chosen spot is one of your chosen favourites, and not just the general yard. "Keep Off" spray is one of these, an odorous deterrent, designed to keep animals out of an area.
One method that meets with regular success might sound familiar to parents of small children: give him his own space to dig. How do you get him to stay in "his" spot? Redirection, mentioned above, and plenty of praise. You might even want to bury some of his favourite things in his new area, to help him figure it out. Don't bury them too deep, however.
Good luck!
More Dogs Quick Tips
Boredom and Instinctive Digging
This one is unbelievably simple: Take your dog for a walk. More than once a day, more than just a walk. By wearing your dog's energy out, he'll be too tired to dig anywhere, much less where he's not supposed to. I'm quite serious, play with your dog, don't let him get bored. A tired dog is a good dog.
Escape Artist Digging
Bury your fence, or use a cement base for your base, and neuter your male, if indeed he is an unneutered male. Males can scent a female in heat from miles away and will do anything to get to her. The best solution, if this is your problem, is to neuter your male or keep him secured to yourself when he's outside.
All Other Digging
Redirection works well, if you catch him in the act of tearing up your lawn. Get his attention, and give him something fun to do, even sit, down, up training sessions, with plenty of treats and praise.
There are repellent products available if your dog's chosen spot is one of your chosen favourites, and not just the general yard. "Keep Off" spray is one of these, an odorous deterrent, designed to keep animals out of an area.
One method that meets with regular success might sound familiar to parents of small children: give him his own space to dig. How do you get him to stay in "his" spot? Redirection, mentioned above, and plenty of praise. You might even want to bury some of his favourite things in his new area, to help him figure it out. Don't bury them too deep, however.
Good luck!