Hey neighbor, I saw your question about stopping your dog from digging up your yard, and let me tell you—I feel your pain. I’ve been there, standing in my backyard, staring at craters that make my lawn look like it lost a fight with a backhoe. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, and there’s hope!
The Not-So-Secret Trick That Worked for Me
First things first—fill in those holes, but here’s the kicker: before you cover them with dirt, toss in a little surprise—your dog’s own poop. (I know, gross, but stick with me.) Cover that with a thin layer of soil, and repeat every single time they dig. Trust me, dogs hate digging where their own business is buried. It’s not foolproof, but it makes a big difference.
Why Is Your Dog Digging in the First Place?
Nine times out of ten, dogs dig because they’re bored. If your pup is spending hours alone outside with nothing to do, those paws are going to get busy. Make sure they’ve got toys to keep them entertained, and when you can, spend some time playing with them outside. A tired dog is a lot less likely to go into full excavation mode.
Give Them a Place to Dig
This was a game-changer for me. Instead of fighting against my dog’s instincts, I gave him a designated dig zone—a cheap kiddie pool filled with dirt. I even buried a few toys in there to make it extra fun. The first time he figured out he was allowed to dig somewhere, it was like Christmas morning for him! Every time he went for the sandbox instead of my lawn, he got praise and treats. It didn’t take long before he preferred his special digging spot over destroying my yard.
Skip the Expensive Fixes—Try This First
Look, there are tons of powders, sprays, and lawn treatments that claim to stop digging, but before you drop a bunch of money, try these simple fixes. They worked for me, and they just might save your yard too.
Hope this helps, neighbor! And if all else fails… well, at least you’ll have a dog who’s passionate about landscaping. 😉
For more tips, you may want to also read Country Living’s article: Why Do Dogs Dig and How Can You Stop Them?
– A Fellow Benbrook Dog Owner
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