Why Does Your Dog Dig? Understanding the Behaviour and What You Can Do About It

Does your dog dig? Many owners shrug it off as “just what dogs do,” and in some cases, that’s true — digging can be a natural breed trait or simply an enjoyable pastime. But in other situations, digging can be a sign of an underlying need or issue that’s worth addressing.

Understanding why your dog digs is the first step toward reducing or redirecting the behaviour.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1. Boredom

Boredom is one of the most common reasons dogs dig. If your dog spends long hours alone, they may dig simply to entertain themselves.

How to reduce boredom digging:

Rotate new toys regularly
Use Kongs filled with dog‑safe paste
Offer the popular GameChanger® toy
Create a sandpit with hidden treats
Arrange a midday dog walker or visitor

A mentally stimulated dog is far less likely to dig out of frustration.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Nervousness or Separation Anxiety

Dogs thrive on companionship. Being left alone in a quiet house or yard can make some dogs anxious, leading them to dig as a coping behaviour.

Ways to help anxious dogs:

Leave a radio or TV on for background noise
Use a two‑way doggy cam to reassure them
Ask a friend or family member to stop by
Provide comfort items with familiar scents

Reducing anxiety often reduces digging.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Investigating Rodents or Underground Sounds

Dogs hear four times better than humans, including frequencies we can’t detect. If your dog digs in specific spots, they may be responding to underground movement.

Redirect this instinct safely:

Create a designated digging zone
Bury toys or treats for them to “discover”
Encourage digging only in approved areas

This allows natural behaviour without yard destruction.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Escaping the Heat

Dogs can overheat quickly. Digging a cool patch of earth is an instinctive way to regulate their temperature.

Prevent heat‑related digging:

Provide access to an air‑conditioned or shaded area
Ensure plenty of cool water
Freeze a 4L ice‑cream container with water + tuna
Visit home at lunch for a quick hose‑down if possible

Comfort reduces the need for self‑cooling behaviours.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Nutrition Deficiencies

Surprisingly, incomplete nutrition can lead to digging. Dogs lacking essential amino acids, vitamins, or minerals may instinctively search for nutrients in the soil.

Support with a balanced diet:

Feed complete proteins
Ensure proper fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals
Consult your veterinarian for dietary guidance

A healthy diet supports healthy behaviour.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Learned Behaviour

Dogs learn by watching — including watching you. If your dog sees you gardening, they may imitate the behaviour. Dogs also learn from other dogs, so one digger can influence the whole pack.

Prevent copycat digging:

Keep dogs indoors during gardening
Supervise outdoor time if you have a known digger