How to Keep a Dog From Digging Under a Chain Link Fence

You may have seen the telltale sign that your dog is bored, anxious, an escape artist or just seeking protection from the elements--it's that large gaping hole in the ground under your chain link fence. Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. Keep your dog secure and your yard intact with exercise, diversionary tactics, behavior modification and fence reinforcement.

Things You'll Need

  • Chicken wire
  • Large rocks
  • Chain link fencing
  • Toys
  • Soil or sand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk your dog at least twice a day, and play fetch or other games that expend energy. Teach it some new tricks, or take a training class. Provide toys to keep it busy, and switch them around to provide variety and pique interest. Spend extra time with your dog.

    • 2

      Provide an alternate, acceptable digging spot by creating a sandbox in another area of the yard. Dig a hole and fill it with loose sand or dirt. Bury its favorite toys in this area as well. Praise the dog when it digs in the approved spot.

    • 3

      Purchase a dog house for shelter in the event the dog is digging to find relief from wind or heat. Place the dog house in a shady area, if possible, to provide extra comfort.

    • 4

      Lay chicken wire under the fence at the hole, curling the sharp edges away from the yard so they face outward. Partially bury large rocks at the fence line. Attach chain link fence to the bottom of the fence and lay it in an "L" shape on the ground to make it uncomfortable for the dog's feet when walking on it.