Are you a dog lover who also happens to have a green thumb? If so, you are well aware of one especially common problem that can test your patience: your beloved pooch turning your beautiful garden into a excavation project of epic proportions. We feel you. After you’ve spent hours planting, pruning, and weeding, it’s a bit disheartening to find your precious plants uprooted and garden beds resembling moon craters, right? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some effective steps to stop your dog from digging up your garden.
Understanding the Underlying Causes
First, we need to recognize that digging is a natural dog behavior. But before we dive into prevention, let’s understand the key motivators.
- Is your dog simply bored or looking for an outlet to burn off surplus energy?
- Is he anxious or stressed about something?
- Could he/she have developed an obsession with bugs or small animals scurrying about in the garden?
- Or, are you dealing with a breed that has a natural propensity for digging, like Terriers or Dachshunds?
Identifying the root cause can help you decide the best approach to discourage them from this destructive habit.
1. Provide Adequate Physical and Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is a digging dog. Regular walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation can go a long way to eliminating the digging problem. Provide your four-legged friend with chew toys, interactive puzzles, or balls for a fun-filled playtime. Remember, a tired dog is a happy—and non-digging—dog. It’s such an easy thing to do. Why not get started right away?
2. Train and Reward
The power of positive reinforcement training should be utilized. If you catch your furry friend in the act, tell them “no” in a firm, calm voice. Then distract them with a toy or game. When they start to play or do anything other-than-digging, reward them with treats, praise, or belly rubs. Trust me – this method does wonders. It might take some time, but eventually they will associate digging with ‘no fun’ and playing with ‘joy and treats.’ Worth a shot, isn’t it?
3. Create a ‘Legal’ Digging Zone
Can’t get your dog to break the habit? Try creating a designated digging zone. This could be a sandbox or a specific patch of dirt where Fido’s allowed to unleash his natural instincts. Bury some toys or treats in their designated area to encourage them to dig there instead of your vegetable bed. You can thank us later!
4. Use Dog-Safe Repellents
There are a variety of dog-safe repellents you can use to protect your garden. Some dogs don’t like the smell of citrus. Sprinkle orange or lemon peels around your plants, or use a citrus-scented spray. Such natural deterrents can keep your dog at bay without causing any harm.
5. Regularly Check for Pests
Intriguing scents and movements of little critters could potentially draw your dog’s attention. Regularly check your garden for signs of pests like moles or rabbits, and safely remove or prevent them if necessary. The less attractive your garden is to your dog, the fewer holes you will find.
6. Limit Access to the Garden
If your efforts bear no fruit, restricting your dog’s access to the garden might be the last resort. Install a dog-proof fence, or use a long-leash system that prevents your dog from reaching the garden while still allowing plenty of room to roam.
Remember, your dog isn’t inherently naughty or misbehaving. They’re just being dogs, after all! Implementing these tips might take time and patience, but hopefully soon, your dog will learn to respect your beautiful garden.
What’s important is not to punish or scold them after the fact. Digging is rewarding for them and they don’t connect your anger with their actions. So, stay patient, provide redirection, and maintain your gorgeous garden intact.
Are you ready to implement these strategies? Which tip are you planning on trying first? Here’s to a beautiful garden co-existing with your happy, satisifed pup!
