Do Dogs Grow Out Of Digging?

Sometimes dogs grow out of digging, but this is not usually the case. Some dogs will stop digging as they get older, but others will not. Some breeds, such as terriers, were bred to dig. In those dogs, the behavior is more likely to continue. While some dogs will not naturally grow out of digging, there are steps you can take to curb the behavior.

Tips to stop a dog from digging

So your dog is getting older and the digging continues. If they’re just digging random holes, that’s annoying. If they’re digging around the fence line to try and escape, that’s dangerous. Either way, you want the behavior to stop. Here are some things to try:

Try a natural repellent

If there’s a specific spot that has captured your dog’s interest, make the area less appealing by applying a natural, herbal yard repellent like No Dig!

Give them more playtime and toys

Some dogs dig out of boredom. Giving them lots of interactive toys, taking them on more walks, and spending more time playing with them can help to relieve their boredom and stop the digging.

Don’t leave them outside alone for extended periods

There are many reasons your dog should not be left alone outside for long periods, so let your dog inside. That may be all it takes to stop them from digging.

Remove potential prey

If you notice your dog always digs in the same spots, they may be hunting for burrowing animals or insects. If you see signs of animals, call a company that will safely and humanely remove them from your yard.

Add physical barriers

If the digging is around your fence line, add barriers by burying the fence one to two feet, burying chicken wire along the fence line, or partially burying rocks along the border of the fence.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick, consider enlisting help from an animal trainer who can work with you and your pet to come up with a plan that will work for you.