“Dogged Digging”
by Gina Hartoog (in SA Gardening October 2002) 

It is common knowledge that dogs love to dig.  In fact, it’s an innate instinct they’re born with.  People keep dogs for companionship and keep a garden to nurture and enjoy the thrill of things that grow, and sometimes the two don’t seem to blend!

Unfortunately, the things that make a good garden are the things your dog will find irresistible – soft soil for digging and smelly compost full of wonderful bits to chew. However, with the right guidance and a little patience, you can have the best of both worlds. 

Why do dogs dig? 

Lack of exercise and stimulation are the major causes of digging.  Dogs also dig holes to hide treasures like bones and other interesting objects.  The scent of bonemeal can cause dogs to “dig for the bone”, or your dog may dig a hole to cool down on a hot day, so make sure he always has adequate shade.  Unspayed or unneutered dogs may try to dig their way out of your garden to find a mate in your neighbour’s yard.  Terriers and dachshunds are two breeds that are prone to digging.  Instinctively, they dig underground for rodents and other small animals.  Many female dogs instinctively dig holes or dens, whether they are pregnant or not. 

How to stop the digging 

Manipulating your pet’s behaviour can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.  Follow these guidelines: 

• Split your garden in two and only allow dogs in “their” garden

• If you can’t fence off a separate garden for your dogs, fence off areas or flowerbeds where you don’t want the dog to dig or trample young plants

• If your dog digs out of boredom, obedience training or extra walks may work off some of the excess energy

• Trim your dog’s mails – short nails make digging more difficult

• If you find your dogs dig in the same holes, fill the hole with dog faeces or charcoal.  It may stop him returning to that hole

• Make a “digging pit” in a shady corner of your garden.  Fill the pit with loose, sandy soil and bury a few bones or other treats for your dogs.  If you catch your pet digging in other areas simply take him back to the pit until he understands.  When your dog digs in his pit, reward him with a pat and a food treat

• Don’t leave no-digging training too late.  If you have a new puppy, incorporate it into his early learning routine

Garden solutions

Dogs love to run and often trample areas of the garden and flowerbeds with well-worn paths.  If at all possible, try to work around your pet’s chosen path – it will save you energy and time. (Ed. Note – This is the best tip in the article for Dobe owners – create a perimeter path for your dog to do his patrolling!)  If your dog loves to run alongside the fence, leave a gap for him to do so before plating.  Plants like daylilies and periwinkle and hardy and perfect for areas where dogs wander through.