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Once again, dogs are den animals, so digging comes naturally. They dig holes to keep cool or warm as well as digging their own dens. Also making sure your dog gets regular exercise will also prevent digging. So you are probably wondering, if fido has full access to the nice temperatures indoors and gets plenty of exercise, then why are they still digging?
Here are some ways to deal with your digging doggie:
The Dog Digging Pits: If your dog loves digging, provide him with his own digging pit just as parents would provide their child with a sand box. Make sure the pit is neither directly in the summer sun nor unprotected against the winter winds. A 3 x 6 foot area about 2 feet deep is sufficient. Dig it up to loosen the dirt and mix in a little sand to help it drain in the rainy season. Let your dog watch the preparations and if he joins in to help, lavish him with praise. Once the pit is ready, it is easy to get your dog digging in it. Take some of his favorite toys and treats and let him watch you make a fuss over burying them. Call your dog over and help him dig things up. Once he gets the idea and is digging without your help, enthusiastically praise him and repeat, ‘Dig in your pit, dig in your pit.’
Discouraging Bad Digging Habits: Once your dog understands that digging in his pit is an acceptable and enjoyable activity, and knows the meaning of the command, ‘Dig in your pit,’ now you can teach him that digging elsewhere is forbidden. The first step is to teach your dog to stay completely off the flower and vegetable gardens and that he is only allowed on the grass or other parts of your yard. Clearly demarcate the forbidden areas with a short fence about a foot high. A few small sticks with a length of string attached along the top are fine. The fence is not intended as a physical barrier but as a means of marking a boundary. Spend the day outside and watch your dog.
By watching your dog your are not only bonding with them but able to make sure they learn to keep off the forbidden areas and also reward him for listening to you.
What means do you use to teach your precious pooch to stay out of the garden?
Image Source: zebarnabe on Flickr
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