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 Dog Breed Behavior - Digging
Dogs like to dig for many reasons; you need to identify the reason behind the digging before you can address the correct solution.
However, most digging problem can be solved using the water sprinkle method.
Put a water sprinkle at the area where you dog dig most. When the dog start to dig opens the water sprinkle, your dog will be startled. After a few times, the dog will realize that whenever he digs, the water will spray at him. He will not understand that it is you who control the tap. So, whenever he sees the sprinkle it will not dig. This might even be more efficient that command training because your dog might dig when you are not around but water sprinkler is always there. Or if the digging area is too far from the water sprinkler, you could try using an accurate long-range water pistol, shoots at the dog when it digs, do not let the dog sees it is you who do the shooting, let it associates the water with the digging. Your dog will think of water spraying at him when thinks of digging. Do these methods within the shortest period (2-3 days) as possible.
Some of the reasons why dogs dig and the solutions:
(1) Looking for a cool place to lie down
You will notive the dog tend to dig under trees, places with shades or any cooler places. And, lie on the dirt after digging.
You can avoid this by providing good shading doghouse for your dog and with plenty of fresh water. Your dog may still like to go back to the dirt area, try using the sprinkle method.
(2) Looking for prey bury underground
You will notice your dog digs at a specific area or around the path layout, and if occasionally found dead pest killed by your dog.
It is best to get rid of the pests before your dog gets into any danger.
(3) Looking for attention
They will only dig when you are around. You scold them when they dig is one of the method they get your attention. Try to give your dog more care and attention it required. Whenever they did it again ignore them.
(4) Dig and bury their food
This is the way their instinct tells them to do. Save the best for next time or save the extra for next time. To solve this only provide your dog enough food to eat (may be abit more) and at a timely manner. Keep the unfinished food after your dog is full.
(5) Escape from the house
Your dog will dig under the fence if they want to escape. Identify the reason behind, maybe the temptation outside is too big. Try keeping your dog away from the fence when you are not around or try putting the fence 1 or 2 feet bury underground.
(6) Entertainment
Your dog may just be having fun digging and playing with the dirt. Try to divert your dog's attention to playing with you instead of playing with the dirt, keep them mentally and physically stimulated. If you would not be around most of the time, it is recommended for you to provide them with specific dirt area to play with or a sand pit with enough toys. At least your dog will not mess up your whole garden.
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