Stop Determined Diggers With This Dog Training Tip

Dog Training Tip #1 - Think Like a Dog

         Knowing how your dog thinks will help you understand why she does the things that she does. Dogs love to dig - some breeds more than others. Dogs will dig if they are bored, if they haven't gotten enough exercise, and sometimes just because it's fun! Some breeds are instinctual diggers and if you own one of these breeds you will have to be extra patient with your pet as you use these dog training tips.

         Take into consideration the reason that your dog is digging before you reprimand her. Dogs try to cool themselves by digging holes to lay in when the weather is hot. If you go outside only to find your dog laying in a freshly dug hole while panting with a swollen tongue don't scold her. Bring her indoors and give her some water. She was only trying to survive the heat.

More Tips to Deter the Digging

          One dog training tip that usually works requires the use of chicken wire. If your dog has a favorite place that she just won't stop digging in this is the dog training tip for you. Buy some chicken wire and bury it just under the surface of the ground. The next time your dog goes to her favorite digging spot she will quickly encounter the chicken wire. The wire will not hurt your pet, but it takes all the fun out of digging.

          Another dog training tip is to spray your dog in the nose when she begins to dig. This method mandates that you remain with your dog the entire time that she is outside. You have to catch her in the act, and reprimand her immediately. Again, water on the nose won't hurt your dog, but it's not a pleasant experience.

           I believe the saying goes, "curiosity killed the cat," however, dogs are also very inquisitive animals. I can't get anything done without my dog sticking her nose right in the middle of it. If I'm interested in something then she is interested in it as well. Since loose dirt seems to be the most fun to dig in, don't let your dog see you at work in the garden. If she watches you dig around in the dirt, she won't be able to resist the temptation to join in.

           Try these tips and it will bring you a lot closer to you goal of a yard free of holes.