As the weather starts to warm up, many people get excited to begin working on their yards. Flower beds are planted, trees are trimmed, and lawns are mowed. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s worth it when your yard looks beautiful.

But one thing that can ruin all your hard work is if your dog starts digging up the yard. Dogs love to dig, and they can do a lot of damage in a short amount of time.

But what if there was another way? What if you could train your pup to not dig up the yard without having to punish them? It may seem impossible, but it can be done. With patience and some training techniques, you can stop your dog from digging up your dog.

Why Does My Dog Dig in The Yard?

Dogs often dig up yards while searching for something to play with or eat. They may be looking for a place to bury a toy, forage for food, or try to cool down by digging in the dirt. By ensuring your yard is free of potential hazards and providing plenty of toys and food to keep your dog occupied, you can stop them from digging up your yard.

5 Tips to Stop Your Dog from Digging Up Your Yard

1. Help Them Get Their Energy Out

Dogs sometimes dig up yards because they just have too much energy. If your dog seems to be always digging in the yard, try taking them on more walks and hikes. (There are plenty of amazing ones in our area!) Of course, when the weather gets hot, it can be too much for your pup. That’s when it’s an excellent time to play inside or practice those training exercises! Whether you’re exercising them outside or inside, exercise is crucial for helping your dog get their energy out. You can stop your dog from digging by making sure they’re nice and tired.

2. Make Sure They Have a Way to Get Cool

Sometimes dogs dig because they are trying to cool down, and the dirt below the surface is the perfect temperature. If your dog is always digging in the yard, provide them with plenty of water and shade to keep them cool. Consider hanging a sunshade, installing a doghouse, or getting an elevated dog cot with a cover.

You may also consider buying them a kiddie pool or some other way to cool off. It also goes without saying but make sure they have PLENTY of water! There is this neat little fountain/toy too.

You can stop your dog from digging up your yard in the summer heat with ample water and shade.

3. Give Them Something to Do

Dogs often dig up yards because they are bored or looking for something to play with. You can stop your dog from digging by keeping them entertained with plenty of bones, chewy toys, or even treat puzzle toys like this. One of our favorite time-passing activities is a Kong with peanut butter or with frozen yogurt inside for a summer treat.

You can also create an area in your yard that IS digging-friendly! Make a dig pit designated for digging and filled with buried treats, bones, and other prizes. When you give your dog something to do, they are less likely to busy themselves with unwanted digging.

4. Add Digging Deterrents

One way to stop dogs from digging is to cover up any spots in your yard they are attracted to dig. You can use various materials to cover up these spots, such as large, flat stones or rocks or even metal netting and chicken wire.

You can also try covering the dig spots with natural deterrents like cayenne pepper, citrus peels, or vinegar. There are also products that some people have success with, like Nature’s Mace. Another option would be to plant thorny or spiky bushes and plants in dig areas to protect other plants or trees.

By covering up these spots, you can stop your dog from being drawn to them and prevent them from digging up your yard.

5. Get In-Home Training

If you’re having trouble getting your dog to stop digging in specific areas of your home, it may be time to bring in a professional dog trainer. And we just happen to know a few!

Our in-home training program helps you manage behaviors where they happen most—at home! We’ll bring the same top-level instruction we offer at our education center directly to you. Our expert trainers can help correct your dog’s behavior and stop them from digging in the areas you don’t want them to. They will work with you and your dog to create a training plan tailored to your dog’s needs.

Stop Fido from ruining your flower beds and strengthen the bond between you two with our in-home training program. Questions? Let us know—we’re always happy to help!

5 Surefire Ways to Stop Your Dog from Digging Holes in The Yard