How to Prevent a Dog From Digging Near Fences

Many dogs like to dig, and once your pooch has a taste for this pastime, it can be very difficult to break him of this potentially destructive habit. Your dog may be digging as a way to show he is starved for attention, or because he is bored and simply enjoys digging as a way to fill empty hours. It is possible to cure your dog of his digging issues before your yard is destroyed.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog toys
  • Rawhide
  • Onion
  • Spray bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Give your dog a distraction to keep him from digging while in the yard. Offering your dog a new toy or playing a game of fetch with him will keep his interest away from your lawn and garden.

    • 2

      Give your dog a chew toy or a piece of rawhide instead of a bone. One of the reasons your dog may be digging holes is because he is burying the bones you have given him.

    • 3

      Fill in any holes that your dog may have created around and under the fence. This will keep him away from seeing or smelling something that may be tempting him past the fence, such as another dog or a neighbor's cat.

    • 4

      Place onions or a piece of the dog's feces in the holes your dog has already dug. Chances are your dog will continue to dig in the same areas continuously, so placing items with unpleasant odors will repel him from this spot.

    • 5

      Spray your dog with a bottle of water whenever she begins digging in your yard. Eventually the dog will begin to associate this negative consequence with digging, and she will cease this practice.

    • 6

      Pay close attention to your dog when out in the yard. If you cannot keep an eye on your dog at all times outdoors, keep him inside if you are going to work on your lawn for an extended period of time.