Why Does My Dog Dig Holes in the Garden?

Your lawn looks like the surface of the moon, and your dog looks very proud of themselves. Digging is a natural, instinctive behaviour for many dogs. You can’t always stop it completely, but you can redirect it.

Why dogs dig

• Boredom: digging is a great way to pass the time when there’s nothing else to do.
• Instinct: terriers and hounds were bred to dig after small animals.
• Keeping cool: on hot days, dogs dig to reach cooler soil to lie in.
• Hiding treasure: some dogs bury bones and toys to save for later.
• Escaping: digging near fences can mean your dog wants to get out.

What really helps

1. More exercise and play. A tired dog is far less likely to dig.
2. Give them a digging spot. A sandpit corner where you bury toys for them to find turns digging into a game.
3. Offer brain toys. Treat-dispensing and puzzle toys give busy minds a job.
4. Provide shade and water so they don’t need to dig to keep cool.
5. Check fences and block escape routes along the bottom.
6. Don’t punish after the fact. Dogs won’t connect it to the digging. Redirect in the moment instead.

Keep your dog safe

Make sure your garden doesn’t use snail bait, fertilisers or plants that are toxic to dogs, as diggers often get mouthfuls of soil. If your dog has eaten something harmful, call your vet straight away.

The heart of it

Digging is your dog being a dog, curious, busy and full of life. Give that energy a better place to go, and you’ll get your garden back while your dog gets a happier, more interesting day.