Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Digging is a natural tendency of dogs. It is ingrained within them and there isn't much we can do to change it. While some dogs may be obsessive diggers and create many holes in your yard, other pups will just playfully 'dig' at a rug. Whatever the level of digger you are living with, embrace the fact that your doggy loves to dig! Set up activities for your pup that will encourage the fact that they are diggers and hopefully help them get some of that digging energy out.
You may want to discourage your dog from digging numerous holes in your yard (for obvious reasons) so what should you do if your dog still just needs to dig? The solution: build a spot in the yard just for your dog's digging habit. It doesn't have to be a large space and it doesn't have to be filled with designer dirt, any space you can give to your pup will be beneficial. Teaching your dog that they have their own area to dig and play will greatly help their demeanor and satisfy their need to create huge holes in the yard.
You may have seen your pup digging at the rug or scratching away at your bed before. Don't they know that they cannot dig a hole in a rug? Sorry pooch, you'll be digging a long time! When dogs scratch at the floor or bed, their paws release a scent that claims the spot as their own. So why not give your pup a real spot of their own? A nice blanket will do just the trick. A blanket will easily move as your dog scratches away and allow them to get out some of that digging energy while inside.
What better place for your dog to dig than on a big sandy beach? Beaches are the ultimate digging spot for your dog as the endless sand is easy on their paws, yet will create a satisfying hole. Another beautiful fact of the beach is that no one will mind if a dog digs a bunch of holes as they can easily be filled in! Unlike your backyard where seeing your dog dig a bunch of holes is something that may cause you anxiety, watching your dog playfully throw sand at the beach is fun, entertaining and will make both you and your pup happy.
Some dogs who are obsessive diggers are just in need of an outlet for their energy. Take your dog for a run or encourage them to run in the yard to get out excess energy.
If you don't mind your dog digging holes in your yard, bury a bone or treat with your dog watching and then let them take over the yard and find the treat!
Dogs will never stop digging, so you might as well give your pup what they want. A place to dig is any doggy's dream and one that you can easily make come true. So stop disciplining your pup when they dig big holes and start thinking of ways you can help them dig, while also not losing your patience for your pooch. Well directed digging is great for you and your pup to stay calm and enjoy the scent of fresh turned dirt in the air.