| Digging is used to uncover prey in
underground burrows, and is useful to bury food,
which is later retrieved and consumed. Dogs also dig
to create a cavity in the snow or earth for shelter
from the wind and to conserve body heat. In warmer
weather, an excavation may keep the dog cool. Some
dogs dig before urination or defecation. Dominant
adult dogs kick up soil with the hind legs, perhaps
to disperse its scent and increase territorial
marking. Glands in the footpads mark the soil with
scent during digging.
Even indoors, many dogs appear to dig in
preparing a place to rest. This form of digging
behavior is usually not destructive, though over
time your carpet may be worn down. Digging is
usually not considered a problem unless it destroys
property. To prevent your dog from digging, you must
control opportunities to dig and provide the dog
with alternative activities that are equally
enjoyable and physically challenging. If your dog
digs in your backyard, restrict access to that area.
Ideally, your dog should not be left unsupervised
in your yard, regardless of any misbehavior. Your
dog will be less likely to expend energy by digging
if it is walked at regular intervals every day and
has a variety of appropriate physical activities to
pursue. Have daily play sessions that apply
obedience skills, such as retrieving objects. |
