Why do terriers dig

Dogs naturally seek the shelter of dens. Dens are cooler in hot weather, warmer in cold weather this is why many of the northern breeds, such as Siberian Huskies , are known for digging , and a shelter they can feel secure in. You might notice your dog digging on his or her bed or in the crate ; this is also an instinctual behavior related to digging dens outdoors.

In short, denning is very natural for dogs and is a difficult behavior to break if your dog enjoys having a self-constructed home outdoors.

Although understanding why dogs dig can help manage the behavior, it is often very difficult to stop. Digging is a natural behavior, especially if you have a breed that was bred for digging while hunting or a denning dog.

Instead, never leaving them unsupervised, giving them alternative behaviors, or even providing a special place in the yard will help control the digging.

Whatever the reason, digging can be managed and sometimes completely stopped, but it takes time, patience, and an understanding of dog behavior. Compare Breeds Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side. Dog Name Finder Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration. Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. Take a training class with your dog and practice what you learn daily.

Keep interesting toys in the yard to keep your dog busy when you're not around. Rotate the toys to keep things interesting. Hunting prey Dogs often dig in an effort to catch burrowing animals or insects who live in your yard. This may be the case if the digging is: Focused on a single area rather than the boundaries of the yard.

At the roots of trees or shrubs. In a "path" layout. What to do Search for signs of burrowing animals, then use safe, humane methods to fence them out, exclude them or make your yard or garden unattractive to them.

What not to do Don't use any product or method that could be toxic or dangerous to your pets or other animals. Top 10 tips.

Get Your Copy. Comfort and protection In hot weather, dogs may dig holes to lie in the cool dirt. Your dog may be digging for comfort or protection if: The holes are near the foundations of buildings, large shade trees or a water source. Your dog doesn't have a shelter or their shelter is too hot or cold. Your dog lies in the holes they dig. What to do Provide your dog with the comfort or protection they seek.

Attention Any behavior can become attention-getting behavior if the dog learns that they receive attention for engaging in it.

What to do Ignore attention-seeking behavior and give your pooch lots of praise for " good dog " behavior. The easiest way is to give your dog a digging spot. A sandbox can work wonders in this way. Bury rubber bones and other toys in the sand so your dog can find treasures while exploring. This will make the digging spot more rewarding than the rest of the yard. Any time your dog starts to dig somewhere other than the digging spot, gently redirect them and reward any digging in that preferred place.

Your dog will search underground tunnels for caged rats kept safe behind a barrier. AKC Scent Work is another fun option where all dogs, purebred and mixed breed, are eligible to participate and search for a hidden target odor. Finally, AKC Agility is a great sport for physical and mental exercise, as well as strengthening the dog-owner bond.

Dig in and find true teamwork as you run your dog through tunnels and over jumps. Compare Breeds Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side. Dog Name Finder Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration. Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. Additional Resources AKC. Clubs Offering: Training Classes. Back To Common Behavior Issues. Why Do Dogs Dig? Oct 25, 4 Minutes. Digging became a way for dogs living in areas with particularly cold or wet weather to find protection against their environment.

Here are some other cause for late-night scratching in domestic pets:. Dog scratching can quickly turn into a pet owner nightmare — even if the dog lover is in your Instagram bio. The good news is there are some measures you can take to prevent this from happening so your dog can enjoy his bed. Dogs need to have their nails trimmed every weeks. A regular trim can prevent potential furniture or hardwood floor damage, as well as help prevent their nails from becoming infected.