Why Do Dogs Dig?

Ever wondered why dogs dig up gardens, couches, carpets, and even under fences? In this article, we’ll uncover the reasons behind this behaviour and share practical tips to help stop excessive digging.

It can feel discouraging when your pup comes inside with muddy paws from tearing up the backyard, or worse, when you find claw marks on your sofa or carpet. However, before you get frustrated, it's helpful to understand that digging is a natural behavior in dogs.

Why Do Dogs Dig?

Digging is instinctive. Every dog does it to some degree, but breeds like terriers and dachshunds are especially prone because they were originally bred to chase and flush out burrowing animals. For them, scratching at the ground (or your rug) is simply second nature.

Digging Under Fences

When a dog tunnels beneath a fence, it’s usually because they’re trying to reach something exciting on the other side, maybe another dog, an intriguing smell, or simply a chance for adventure. To a dog, digging is often the easiest escape route.

Digging on Furniture and Carpets

If your dog is digging at the couch, bed, or rug, it often comes down to two possibilities:

• Not enough stimulation: Bored dogs often invent their own fun, and scratching or digging gives them something to do.
  

• Stress relief: Some dogs dig when they’re anxious; it can be a way of releasing nervous energy.
  

💡 Want to help? Make sure your dog is getting the right amount of exercise and play for their breed’s needs.

Digging Holes Outdoors

When your dog is tearing up your lawn, they may have different goals in mind:

• Burying food or toys to save for later.
  

• Uncovering hidden treasures they stashed before.
  

• Cooling down: On hot days, digging provides a cool patch of soil where they can relax, especially for large or double-coated dogs.
  

How to Discourage Digging

Since digging is natural, the goal isn’t to eliminate it completely but to redirect it in healthy ways. Try these approaches:

• Neutering: Intact males may dig in search of females, so neutering can help curb that urge.
  

• Proper exercise and mental activity: Keep your dog busy with walks, training games, or puzzle feeders.
  

• Create a “dig zone”: Give them a sandbox or designated spot in the yard where digging is allowed. Hide toys there to make it fun.
  

• Prevent and manage triggers:
  

• Don’t leave bones or treats outside.
  

• Keep your yard pest-free without using toxic chemicals.
  

• Supervise outdoor time so you can step in and redirect the behavior right away.
  

The takeaway: Digging is normal dog behavior, but with a little redirection, exercise, and management, you can protect your garden and your living room from becoming a digging site.