Dogs are curious by nature. Whether it’s chasing after scents, looking for cooler ground, or simply out of boredom, digging is a behavior that frustrates many owners. If your dog has turned your backyard into a series of craters—or worse, has been tunneling under the fence to escape—you’re not alone. The good news? With the right strategies, you can stop dogs from digging and enjoy a yard that stays safe, secure, and intact.

Below, we’ll explore why dogs dig and, most importantly, how to train them to stop and prevent dogs from digging under the fence.

Why Do Dogs Dig?

• Instinct: Some breeds, especially terriers, were developed to dig for prey.
• Boredom: Dogs left alone with little stimulation often dig for entertainment.
• Escape: Exploring beyond the fence can be a powerful motivator.
• Comfort: Digging for cool soil on hot days or creating a cozy resting spot.
• Hunting: Squirrels, moles, or insects can trigger persistent digging.

Once you identify the “why,” you’ll be better prepared to address the “how.”

How to Stop Dogs from Digging in the Yard

1) Increase Exercise and Playtime

Many dogs dig because they have excess energy. Add extra walks, play sessions, or fetch time to help your dog burn it off. A well-exercised dog is far less likely to dig holes in your lawn.

2) Provide Mental Stimulation

Boredom fuels destructive behaviors. Rotate interactive toys, use puzzle feeders, and introduce scent games to keep your pup’s mind engaged.

3) Create a Dedicated “Digging Zone”

Completely eliminating digging can be unrealistic for some breeds. Give your dog a designated spot—like a sandbox or a corner with soft soil—and bury toys or treats there. Reward digging in this area and gently redirect if they start elsewhere.

4) Block Tempting Critters

If burrowing animals are the trigger, address the pest problem humanely. Traps, repellents, or professional pest control can remove the incentive to dig.

5) Supervise and Redirect

When you’re outside, watch for signs your dog is about to dig. Interrupt with a clap or cue, then redirect to a toy, game, or the digging zone. Over time, your dog learns that digging in the wrong spot ends the fun, while good choices get rewards.

How to Prevent Dogs from Digging Under the Fence

Fence-line digging is especially concerning because it threatens your dog’s safety. Here’s how to stop it:

1) Reinforce the Base of Your Fence

• Bury hardware cloth or chicken wire: Lay it along the fence line and bend it inward to block tunneling.
• Add concrete or pavers: Pour a narrow concrete footer or line the base with bricks, stones, or landscaping pavers.
• Use an L-footer: Extend fencing material in an “L” shape underground along the fence to create a dig-proof barrier.

2) Provide Shade and Comfort

If your dog is digging to escape heat, offer shaded resting areas and fresh water. Sometimes comfort—not escape—is the real motivator.

3) Eliminate Escape Motivations

Dogs often dig to reach something on the other side. Privacy panels, solid fencing, or shrubs can block visual triggers like other dogs or wildlife.

4) Train with Positive Reinforcement

Reward your dog for choosing activities away from the fence line. Teach a reliable “leave it” and use high-value treats to mark the moment they disengage from the fence. Consistency matters—reinforce good choices every time.

5) Supervised Yard Time

Until the habit is under control, avoid leaving your dog unsupervised for long stretches. Even the best barriers can fail if a dog is highly motivated to escape.

Quick Fixes vs. Long-Term Training

It’s tempting to rely on quick fixes—like filling holes with rocks or spraying deterrents—but they rarely solve the root issue. Long-term success comes from a balanced plan: exercise, enrichment, training, and fence reinforcement. Address both the cause and the opportunity to dig.

Additional Tips for Success

• Consistency is key: Mixed messages create confusion. Keep rules and routines steady.
• Reward, don’t punish: Punishing after the fact doesn’t work; redirect in the moment and reinforce good choices.
• Match the plan to the breed: High-energy dogs (e.g., huskies) need more exercise and enrichment than lower-energy breeds.
• Get professional help if needed: For excessive digging or separation anxiety, consult a trainer or behaviorist.

Conclusion

Digging is natural, but it doesn’t have to wreck your yard or risk your dog’s safety. By providing regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a designated digging zone, you can dramatically reduce damage. And by reinforcing the fence line, offering comfort, and supervising yard time, you can prevent dogs from digging under the fence and keep them safe at home. With patience, consistency, and the right mix of training and environmental tweaks, you’ll have a beautiful yard and a happy, well-behaved pup.