[ Home  |  FAQ-Related Q&As  |  General Q&As  |  Answered Questions ]

    Search the Q&A Archives

...stop dogs from digging. Ours loves to dig and...

<< Back to: rec.pets.dogs: Labrador Retrievers Breed-FAQ

Question by Diamond
Submitted on 8/27/2003
Related FAQ: rec.pets.dogs: Labrador Retrievers Breed-FAQ
Rating: Rate this question: Vote
How do you stop dogs from digging.  Ours loves to dig and actually got lost because he dug his way out of the fence


Answer by bill
Submitted on 10/31/2003
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
   Filling in the holes: Put charcoal in the hole. Then try refilling the holes with junk. Dogs quickly lose interest and pretty much stop digging. Fill the hole with whatever is at hand - dead leaves, sticks, pine needles, rocks or even dog feces. Fill the top 2 inches or so with dirt. The dog finds the stuff, gets discouraged and often quits digging. They seem to get the idea they'll never know where they'll find junk, and it's not worth the effort to dig only to find junk so they quit.

Surprises in the hole: The Koehler dog method advocates filling holes with water and sticking dog's head under the water for a few seconds or so. This may not work with some breeds (e.g., Labradors), and may not appeal to you as a method to try. Alternatively, you can try burying a water balloon in one of the holes which will pop in its face when it starts digging (surprise).

A sandbox: Try to remember that digging is a natural tendency for dogs. So, if there is any place where your dog may be allowed to dig, you should encourage it (and only in that place). Designate an area where the dog can dig. Many people build a sand box for their dog. Place the box in an area that is cool in summer and warm in winter.

To teach the dog to dig only in the box, place or bury toys or treats (sliced hotdogs, for example) in the box. Encourage the dog to dig up the toy or treat. Praise the dog. Repeat until the dog willingly jumps in and digs. Watch the dog. When it starts to dig in any other place, quickly go out and take your dog to its box. Show it (by digging yourself), that it should dig in its box.

To deter boredom, place several toys/treats in the box before you leave for work. The dog will spend its time digging in the correct place rather than digging up your roses. You can also sprinkle animal essence (available at hunting supplies places).

Remember that dogs like to dig in freshly turned earth. So get out that shovel and turn the dirt over in the sand box every now and then. Toss in some fresh dirt. Keep a close eye on freshly planted areas, as they will be very attractive (bury some extra hotdogs in the sandbox when you are putting down new plants).

Put a cheap wooden deck over the area of the backyard. Or get a roll of rabbit cage wire (Home Depot) and lay flat over ground, stake it down. Also you say you walk him, so section off your yard with the wire leaving enough room for a toilet area.

Line the yard. for extreme cases you can line the yard with chicken wire and put a layer of sod over that. Use paving bricks or blocks around the edge to prevent the dog from injuring itself on the edge of the chicken wire.

We have 2 dogs and had a similar problem. Our vet told us to fill the holes with the dogs' feces and cover with dirt. Sounds disgusting, but guess what - it worked! Seems the dogs can smell it, and so they won't dig it up.

Ok this is going to raise some eyebrows but it is not so bad, really. I did dog rescue work for 13 years and one of the vets we use suggested that when we trim the dogs nails that we trim them just a bit shorter than you are supposed to and apply styptic powder. It doesn't exactly hurt when they dig but it is uncomfortable like when you chew a nail down to the quick. It took me a while to get up the courage to do this but the dogs didn't seem to be in distress at all and quit digging. Of course you have to give them other stuff to do chew toys etc, and lots of exercise. I tried the chicken wire thing and it cut up their paws much crueler I think than this. You could file them down if you don't like using the clippers.

 

Answer by Kurt from Chicago
Submitted on 1/12/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
Another way to look at the problem is to examine the owner. The dog may be doing this because of what the owner isn't doing.  Your dog probably needs more exercise and is board.  Our two labs did this to release stored up energy. We now make sure they get more time "out" and the digging only happens on days when they don't get enough quality time and exercise.  Look at the action some time.  Digging is like fast walking but the back legs don't move.  Exercise will fix many "problems" with our pets.

 

Answer by Tanisha
Submitted on 2/11/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
I have heard of a quite interesting method. You put socks on them when they digs! They hate it so much that they stop!

 

Answer by Eric
Submitted on 2/13/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
Dogs like to dig because it feels good to them. So what you can do is put chicken wire in the hole, your dog will mediately stop cause he'll get a unpleasant feeling. If you give your dog a bone give it to him inside. That's another reason why dog digs they want to hide their bones. And if you do a lot of gardening keep your dog inside while your doing it cause if he sees you digging he'll do the same thing!

 

Answer by fool
Submitted on 3/5/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
cut off their feet

 

Answer by Maggie
Submitted on 3/23/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
I have given my dog bones inside, and he buries them in the couch or chair cushions or hides them under some piece of furniture. I made the mistake of giving him one outside, and the little guy immediately buried it!

 

Answer by dog hater
Submitted on 3/28/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
Well, cut off their legs and tails and put marbles in their eyes.  Than that way when they are looking around all they can see is marbles and they won't know what to dig.

Or put them in a bun and eat em.  Especially weiner dogs.

 

Answer by r
Submitted on 3/30/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
cruel as it sounds broken glass stopped our problems with digging out under the fence but i cant seem to stop the digging in the open yard

 

Answer by G-unit
Submitted on 4/3/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
How do i stop chewing

 

Answer by dogs need to stop digging
Submitted on 4/3/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
if you catch them digging, take pepper in your hand and take them to were they were digging then when their face is in the hole put the pepper on their nose!!!it will make them sneeze and not dig!

 

Answer by ahole
Submitted on 4/4/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
throw yout cat in the yard when you see it digging for a distraction

 

Answer by     cats
Submitted on 4/10/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
feed your dog cats. many of them. all of them.

 

Answer by RSQMutts
Submitted on 4/30/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
I can't believe that such assholes waste everyone's time with such cruel suggestions. Please ignore them, and treat all animals equal to the way we treat each other.

 

Answer by Alison
Submitted on 6/7/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
My dog is hopeless... I planted $100 worth of flowers and bushes in our yard and they are pretty much all destroyed now.  No, actually I think there is one still standing.  We've tried to show her what she's done wrong by sticking her nose in it and telling her "no," we've used mouse traps and cayenne pepper.  Our next step is to either sell her off or spend the money on a hidden electric fence.    

 

Answer by Poi Dogs
Submitted on 6/29/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
My Poi Dogs (Hawaiian Mutts) are so sweet but yet so rotten at the same time!  They'd dug up the stakes that the Sentricon guys installed for the termites...we had them replaced this past Saturday and today, another one came out.  Our back yard is covered with gravel and a weed liner underneath.  So they have full run.  But still, the move rock and hit dirt every so often...more often now than before.  I just went to the pet store to get repellent...hope it works.  If not, I'll try the sand box!

 

Answer by Bonzo
Submitted on 7/15/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
Measure your dog's length and height, then secure your best friend in such a way that(s)he is sitting or standing by your right side.  Dig a hole the length and height of your mongrel.  Keep digging straight down while tossing the shoveled dirt to your right. Make certain you maintain the length and height measurements of your dog while digging.  Keep digging to about 4 feet down. Now, look down to your right and you'll notice that you buried your dog in dirt and he is in full rigor mortis.  Now, throw him in the hole and shovel the dirt back in over him.  It's that easy!

 

Answer by dilligaff
Submitted on 7/21/2004
Rating:  Rate this answer: Vote
One good bullet.

 

Answer by Ryan502
Submitted on 8/10/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
How do you stop your (Deaf) dog from digging up the phone line and stop chewing on the wires and AC unit? no matter what i put in or on the dirt she likes it. I put vineger. she likes it. I sprayed pepper spray on it. she likes the taste... I mean common I had a Frig. outside in the garage and she chewed through the power cord while it was pluged up and it didn't hurt her... now matter what i do she likes it.. I even tryed putting Charcoal there and that doesn't bother her. Nothing does!!!

 

Answer by owner of a digging chow
Submitted on 8/28/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
i cant believe those idoits acutally have do make such rude remarks if they dont like animals then what are they doing even answering the question

 

Answer by Saddam
Submitted on 8/30/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Do what I do to all american capitalist dog scum.  Smile and wave to them go get them to move close.  Smile and wave, smile and wave..the murderous dogs will be stupid and come closer.  Then quickly pull out your gold plated Kalishikov and put thje dogs to death...hahahahahahahha...one day I will be free again....Hooday and Qusay..call me.

 

Answer by Disgusted
Submitted on 10/20/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
It's a pity to seek out sites such as this just to spill your vile, asinine "answers."  It must suck to be you. Seriously.  

 

Answer by Nic
Submitted on 10/31/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
actually the bullet thing sounds good but thats just because I'm angry with the dog, I've tried water in the hole, feces, spanking him with a bad dog in a sharp tone of voice.  I've tried the pepper thing Cayan and black both.  I've tried an electric fence and that was only effective around the fence.  I'm afraid that the only thing left is get rid of the dog.

 

Answer by hehaw
Submitted on 11/7/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
for exercise, try looping his leash around the bumper of your car and going for a "ride".  usually, if they make it home they are too exhausted to dig anymore- usually you only need to repeat this once or twice a week to be effective.  Just make sure you don't drive too fast or Fido may die.  i have found that most dogs love going for car rides-

 

Answer by dogperson
Submitted on 11/24/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Putting wire under fences has worked well for me.  DO NOT use chicken or turkey wire.  It is too flimsy and will hurt your dog.  Use heavy guage wire for cattle fences, etc.  As far as digging in gardens, the dog does that because dogs like to imitate behaviors they see their owners' doing.  Also consider letting your dog spend more time with you or in your house, or even crate training.

 

Answer by helpme
Submitted on 11/27/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
how do you stop a lab from digging? I have gone so far as to fill the hole with bricks they dig still. its in the same spot. and its to get out of the gate.

 

Answer by becci
Submitted on 12/2/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have tried everthing for our pit/lab
for digging up the backyard. He likes cats.
But if you put socks on him he would
probably just sit out there and eat them off
of his feet and swallow them and get sick.
We have tried pepper powder.That did not
we never thought about rubbing is nose into
it when we catch him. we will try that.

 

Answer by husky lover
Submitted on 12/3/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Just ask them nicely to "quit digging"

 

Answer by HLB
Submitted on 12/15/2004
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
This page is very helpful I just have one question, who are these people that leave such terrible comments and why don't they get something better to do with their time.

 

Answer by kill dilligaff
Submitted on 1/3/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
you're the one that needs the bullet

 

Answer by Steve
Submitted on 1/14/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote

Just let your dogs dig !!

to the person that recommended chickenwire and cutting the dogs nails past where you should,  you are a mean jerk, I hope someone does that to you.


 

Answer by Reesa
Submitted on 1/29/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
  Just look at it this way.  The value of our home had doubled.  We now sit right on the back nine! (nine holes courtesy of our dog.

 

Answer by sean effin
Submitted on 3/3/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
As soon as you see your dog behaving inappropriately you must correct them accordingly.  By pinning your dog down and having your way with him, forcefully + unrepentlessly in a doggy-style fashion, he/she will associate unwanted behavior with an unmerciful reaming.  You will probably only need to 'correct' your dog 1-3 times before it 'learns'.  Good luck.  

 

Answer by Skissy24
Submitted on 3/30/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I'm going to try putting in sprinklers that line my fence.  My dogs are afraid of water.

 

Answer by nicole
Submitted on 4/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
My dog digs out to go swim at the river(creek) down the street.  He digs out swims and comes back.  Hes a sweet dog, but he jumps up on people and we have been thretend to have to pound called on us.  We had to resort to chaining him in and walking him reguarly because the chicken wire, burrying various items, and post just doesn't seem to work.

 

Answer by gabbya
Submitted on 5/2/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
my puppy keeps biting me. he won't listen to my no's he won't stop if i spray water on him, he won't react to my cries. what should i do? and i have a problem with having feces all over the yard. what should i do to make him do his business in one spot?

 

Answer by Great white Humper
Submitted on 5/9/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
<plaintext>
hahahahah I love dogs but I hate my Barkless besenji german shepard mix I think she is going to have a hunting accident if all of these tricks don't work

 

Answer by doe13
Submitted on 5/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
catch the dog in the act of digging and use a spritzer to spray them in the fact with water or very diluted hot sauce to discourage digging problems.

 

Answer by danni
Submitted on 5/26/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
i read on one of the icons that by cutting the dogs nails past the quick that it will prevent them from digging. although this might help your dog from digging, most vets will not do this ( they will put him under to cut that low) and if you decide to do it yourself it is quiet painful for the dog and you will find that later on when you want to cut his nails again it is going to be difficult because the dog will not want it to be done. if you are like me and have big dogs you will find that if they will not sit still for you that it is not an easy thing to do.

 

Answer by jjdoggy
Submitted on 7/2/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
my Doberman kept digging holes and running around the block. To stop her I but bones and doggy toys over the holes then I put dirt over it .

 

Answer by BlackLabowner
Submitted on 7/7/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Such stupid responses by stupid people.
Never even tease about animal abuse.

 

Answer by ???????
Submitted on 8/7/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
you guys are assholes!! you need to be shot with a bullet!!

 

Answer by keep trying
Submitted on 10/15/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I tried the bitter spray.  We sprayed the tree my pups were destroying & the patio furniture (hoping to ensure it's safety).  They found the taste to be delectable, and so chewed every last thing in the yard, excluding the 20-some odd chew toys.  Now that we have one dead tee & only metal left of our patio set, they are taking to the ground.  DON'T USE THE BITTER SPRAY!  We are going to try the sand box & chicken wire, next.

 

Answer by b
Submitted on 11/1/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
My yard is a wreck, but my dog is happy. Nuff said!

 

Answer by Johnny Catfish
Submitted on 11/1/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Go out and buy the most expensive flowers and then resead your lawn with Fesque and then let your dog out, you dog will understand that you dont want him to dig and he will stop digging becase he cares about your money and your lawn, if this doesnt work i would go with the bullet. that is just my view of it.

 

Answer by Diggidy Dawg
Submitted on 11/30/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Tie their front legs and back legs together and feed them morning and night while they lay on the ground.

 

Answer by Diggidy Dawg
Submitted on 11/30/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Tie their front legs and back legs together and feed them morning and night while they lay on the ground.

 

Answer by Weimsarebad
Submitted on 12/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Catch the dog in the act and hit continuous on the shock collar at high voltage.  A few lessons will cure his digging problem.  

 

Answer by VW
Submitted on 12/20/2005
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
For keeping dogs out of shrubs, Jerry Baker's garden gave me this idea.  It is his varmints spray and having pine straw around the shrubs helps.  Jerry's varmints spray:

8 oz. murphys oil soap
4 oz. castor oil
5 oz. hot sauce- I like TX Pete
1 tblps allum( not really necessary)
shot of urine

 

Answer by Ky
Submitted on 1/9/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I used chili powder and sprinkled it in the holes my dog would dig.  It works!

 

Answer by the dog worcestershirer
Submitted on 1/24/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Instructions for small dog digging or repetitive barking: 1)Shave dog. 2)Baste with melted butter and worcestershire sauce. 3)Place in microwave for 20 minutes.(30 minutes at 350 F in convection oven). Note: This is only a joke. Please do not really follow these instructions as they could caues severe pain to a dog, and could lead to your arrest.

 

Answer by JImmy
Submitted on 1/29/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Bury 4x4's along the inside perimeter of the fence, or trench along the inside perimeter and bury cinder blocks, or if you are building a 5' high mesh (or wire) fence buy 6' high and staple the extra 1' to the  ground directly inside the fence using 6"-9" long U shaped staples (found at Amazon.com) then put a light covering of dirt on top if you like. These are the best ways I've been able to think of to solving this problem.  

 

Answer by russelladdict
Submitted on 2/15/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I got a pound puppy for a companion to my Jack Russell whom I adored and couldn't bear the thought of leaving home all day by himself.  She is a lab/border collie mix and she is so destructive.  Shes'swood, on the house, chairs, doorframes, anything and digs like crazy like she is chasing imaginary bugs.  My yard was tore up for a year, we put down sod and it looked great for about a month and now it looks like crap again.  I thought about taking her back to the pound but my husband loves her for some reason.  So, we just live with it. The russell I got her for got ran over.  He was great.  The new russell doesn't dig, but he marks everything in the house.  I should have stuck to fish.

 

Answer by dionne
Submitted on 2/26/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
its amazing how openly ignorant people will be with thier responces. You know if you never open your mouth we will never know just how stupid you are.

 

Answer by do this
Submitted on 3/8/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Place pepper where ever the dog has been digging

 

Answer by good kitty
Submitted on 3/10/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
love the cat distraction technique. now if only i could get that one by my wife.

 

Answer by boarderline-dog-hater
Submitted on 3/15/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I was thinking of the broken glass in the flowerbeds, or better yet, bury barbed-wire so it'll cut up their feet, or some sort of acid.

 

Answer by Mel
Submitted on 4/4/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Bring your dog to Sharon Martins.

 

Answer by Maldito Perro
Submitted on 4/10/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Hay que golpearlo mucho para que entienda.

 

Answer by Cinni st 
Submitted on 4/11/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I like this site its purple!we have tried many things but dont have time to do the sand box and dont have the money to do the wires.we are going try bricks next. then again are dog can dig through any thing!

 

Answer by dog lover
Submitted on 4/12/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I like to use viet cong taps-you know, the ones where when they dig they fall on a spike trip.  This usually stops them from digging, mainly because they're dead.  If that doesn't work, I'll dig a hole big enough to hide in and I'll bury myself.  When the dog comes to dig the hole, I'll pop out and say "no dog, no."  This usually works after a couple hundred treatments.

 

Answer by weedahoe
Submitted on 4/18/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
We have 4 large Rottweillers that love to dig. They do not do it for fun or to bury but rather to stay cool. I have filled the holes in and they dig them back out. I have filled them with water and it didnt work. I filled then with pepper (didnt work) and later again with moth balls (didnt work). I went out in the yard and picked up feces in a bucket and mixed with water and poured it in the holes. This only lasted a short time before they dug again. I have fenced the area off with electric and it didnt work. I took the pets fence charger back and bought a cattle charger. While this did work for some time, they then began to dig in front of the 3 strands of wire to get far enough under so they could get back to thier holes and git down again. Because I know they dig because they are hot, I tried running a water hose and sprinker out in the yard. The only thing this resulted in was a muddy yard and my hose chewed in several places. I a  getting ready to bury chicken wire a few inched under the ground and see what results that brings but wanted to share my events. BTW, my dogs will be 1 yr old in May and all are approx 120lbs so far. I know pups will dig and chew but mine are rediculous.

 

Answer by jt
Submitted on 4/19/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Good Mornting Everyone!

Hellorrr hows yall doring?  I tell Mr. Brown if he don't gat that dang dawg away from me I'm gonna shoot that rascle.  Peoples need to keep thare dawgs in thare own yard...

 

Answer by rufus
Submitted on 4/20/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
its called a SHOTGUN!!

 

Answer by Maddie
Submitted on 4/22/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I read all the responses, and there are some REALLY twisted people in this world.  You dog-haters out there need some SERIOUS therapy.

 

Answer by WHATEVER
Submitted on 4/24/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
WOW, LOTS OF LOSER SICK FREAKS WITH NOTHING BETTER TO DO THAN THINK OF SICK TWISTED THINGS TO SAY...GET A LIFE LOSERS

 

Answer by Dog Friend
Submitted on 5/13/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Assholes. You should be shot and thrown in a hole.

 

Answer by candy
Submitted on 5/24/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
oh my god! cant believe people would write so cruel things about the poor dogs!
it is also a waste of time to all the other people who are trying to find a answer!

 

Answer by hunny bunny
Submitted on 5/29/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
well to stop the digging   get the dog's attention with a duck call.  Then shoot a bird or something and let the dog chase that.  Reward the dog with a bone or something and cook the duck or bird. If the dog insists on digging, get some counseling for Rover or get him involved in some after school activities.

 

Answer by blondie
Submitted on 5/30/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
the best thing that you can do is to put a variety of pepper powders (say that five times fast) and sprikle it in the holes and eventually the dog will stop

 

Answer by I see stupid people
Submitted on 6/3/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
For all of the ignorant, childish people who put stupid and inane answers on here, THINK they are amusing, don't like dogs or don't want to give supportive suggestions, just go to another site.  We don't want your input. Many of the people who get on these sites have legitimate problems, are trying to find valuable suggestions and don't want to read ridiculous answers from those of you that seem to have nothing better to do than chastise those of us trying to work on REAL animal issues.  

 

Answer by Phillips
Submitted on 6/9/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have heard that put black pepper around your fence that it should also stop the dogs from digging.  I think that when they dig u need to put the dog feces in the hole and add more junk to that hole and cover it with dirt it seems to work.

 

Answer by Auden
Submitted on 6/29/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I've also heard that blow up a balloon and bury it.  When the dog digs and pops the balloon, (s)he is startled and this deters further digging.

 

Answer by sunshinebeck
Submitted on 7/13/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
U r a prick

 

Answer by kangle8
Submitted on 8/7/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
some hot sauce in its mouth.or a good wooden spoon

 

Answer by dog lover
Submitted on 8/16/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
As gross as it sounds put poop in the hole that they are digging and they wont want to dig there anymore. Violence is not the answer!

 

Answer by zapem'
Submitted on 8/31/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
get a remote shock collar. wait for them to dig and zap the crap out of them. Shock therapy can work with all of the problems that come with a dog.

 

Answer by zapem'
Submitted on 8/31/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
also excerising, keeping nails really short and filling holes with poop help tremendously. walking not only excersices their bodies but it is very mental as well.

 

Answer by Tony
Submitted on 9/5/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Bring back the mob.

 

Answer by Fat Tony
Submitted on 9/5/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I hate you PITA freaks.
-Dogs are cool
-Cats should be tortured
-Southerners are slow

 

Answer by Im a gangsta
Submitted on 9/5/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Coach,I just saw the new website. AWESOME!!! At 41 years of age, have been following the Crossfit method since last November with my 70 yearold father as my training partner. We follow the system religiously five days a week at 5 am. The results are real and amazing. Thanks for being true to yourself and continuing to evolve the system for all of us. Only time will accurately measure the reality of how you will change the concept and application of fitness principles. One day we'll meet, and I will shake your hand in fellowship and gratitude.
Your devoted disciple,

 

Answer by Im a gangsta
Submitted on 9/5/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Go to church, and www.crossfit.com, They'll tell you everything you need to know. Then and only then will "killer" stop digging. (call me crazy but it works)

 

Answer by rld
Submitted on 9/10/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
you guys are sick

 

Answer by Boxers4Life
Submitted on 9/11/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
One good bullet?? Thats what the owner needs. You deserve to be shot for typing something like that. Broken glass??? You people dont deserve dogs, or any pets for that matter. Probably couldn't even keep goldfish alive. Get a life and leave these threads for the adults. Parents dont let your kids use the internet

 

Answer by savethedogs!
Submitted on 9/26/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Stop listening to these mean answers listen to RSQ and help the dogs don't hurt them!

 

Answer by i_love_concrete
Submitted on 10/7/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
concrete the entire yard so they cant dig anything

 

Answer by Dirty Penis
Submitted on 10/9/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Lift the tail, insert your penis. That wills top em'

 

Answer by Help me!
Submitted on 10/21/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I've had my dog for about six years now, but just after we put the pesticide underground, my dog won't stop digging. I'm not sure what it is but it's driving my family to the point that's willing to give her away. please help me!!

 

Answer by iheartmypups
Submitted on 10/28/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have two golden retrievers. They both dig holes. I tried putting feces in the hole. But I soon found out that if it isn't his/her own the dog doesn't care about the feces and just digs it out. Also, if they do come across their own feces they simply move to another location.

 

Answer by Dave O
Submitted on 10/29/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Fill in holes with broken up cinder blocks and bury them.  Dog's feet will not like the feel of the sharp blocks.

 

Answer by hey you... out of the gene pool
Submitted on 11/1/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
i hope some of these contributors never reproduce.  you know if they ever figure out how, america will be even worse off than it already is...

 

Answer by Skint
Submitted on 11/10/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Fill the hole with gasoline and when the dog comes by, throw in a match….. it will only take less then 10 times for him to learn.

 

Answer by dog boy
Submitted on 11/15/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
how about a bowl of rat poison...

 

Answer by Rebecca Taylor from GJ, CO
Submitted on 11/25/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Place water-balloons in the holes that your dog has dug. Fill the water balloons with a mixture of urine, vomit, puss, blood, and a small amount of bleach (to kill the harmful bacteria). Put a thin layer of dirt on top of the balloons in the holes to conceal them. When your dog starts to dig, the balloons will pop in their faces. They will be disgusted. When they want to come inside, spray them down with ice cold water and take away their food for the rest of the day. This may sound cruel but I tried it and it worked like a charm.

 

Answer by jan
Submitted on 11/27/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I don't even know why dog haters go to this site. Far as i'concerned we'll cut off dog haters feet, put marbles in their eyes and bury them.

 

Answer by Joshie
Submitted on 12/4/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Does pepper work? I've heard it may, and I am eager to stop our dog constantly digging.  Using his own Feces seems to be a popular one, but it doesnt seam to work for us.

 

Answer by name
Submitted on 12/14/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Are some of these answers supposed to be funny?
I hate when people think stupidity is funny

 

Answer by Nanners
Submitted on 12/18/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Well i have heard that coal and little and big pebbles which the dog cannot really dig past so they soon become bored making the effort. It seems harsh to put up electric fences and it is cheaper to use coal and rocks, so try that first

 

Answer by Desi-boy
Submitted on 12/28/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
The best way to stop your dog from digging, is to dig a deep hole and drop their behinds in it for about a hour.  They be so afraid of holes they stop digging.

 

Answer by zim
Submitted on 12/30/2006
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Love your dog. Do not torture any animal because it does not do what you want. Giving a firm slap across the top the head and saying NO followed by dogs name and push the dogs head towards the hole and point and say BAD. Walk the dog away from hole get it to sit or some other command and give a pat and treat. I do like the sandbox idea. Thanks.

 

Answer by Smack a Dork
Submitted on 1/4/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
What I can do is find the dork that is writing this dumb crap, cut his legs off, place him by my leg and toss dirty on him and then when is completely covered with dirt kick him in the hole and toss the remaining dirt on him.  That was we can keep a dork off sites like this and I am sure my dog will stop digging

 

Answer by realist
Submitted on 1/15/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
For RSQMutts.  Look, God made humans superior for a reason.  Honestly, think about it, you spend the entire life of a dog teaching it not to do things that to a human are common sense.  Treat them equal to humans or the way we treat each other? They are dogs, which is some sense means they are like kids, meaning that their respect for us should be about the same.  The only difference is that the things they destroy not knowing any better costs a lot more than kids so you do what you gotta to teach them the best you know how.  If we are cruel it is because they are stupid.

 

Answer by Chelsea
Submitted on 2/8/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
If you are still having problems with the digging and hopefully you didnt take the suggestions that were made by charlie mansons friends then you should hang a rope out side and tie one of your dogs toys to it. I did this with my pit/boxer and she loved it.. but make sure u get it where they can nip it but cant get it.. if they get it then it will ruin the whole point

 

Answer by NIcksthaman
Submitted on 2/11/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
there are a lot of methods. first you can put  their own poop in the hole. you can bury chicken wire and cover it with rocks. put a baloon in the hole and when they dig POP or you can put socks on their feet. but what i did is got my airsoft gun and shot him in the hiney and he dosent see me do it so he knows that it is wrong.

 

Answer by Chriso
Submitted on 2/14/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
You'll find plenty of good ideas here. Always remember that digging is a perfectly natural behavior for your dog.

http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/how-to-stop-dogs-from-digging.html

 

Answer by Michelle
Submitted on 2/14/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Wow.... these people are jerks. I say take one good bullet to the guy who mentioned it, and bury the guy who mentioned that and so on. Dogs are natural diggers and they do need discipline. But at the same time, in order to receive respect, you must give it. My Schnauzer has taken up digging as a hobby lately. I havent come up with a solution yet but never would I try to hurt him. For the people that feel being cruel is the answer. They DO NOT need a pet. I hope they get treated as bad as they treat pets.

 

Answer by Unbelievable
Submitted on 3/1/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Can't belive so many tossers have nothing better to do than come to sites such as this and write pointless crap - one good bullet would fix the ppl for sure

 

Answer by Diz
Submitted on 3/13/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
My friend has a dog that even though the fence has been repaired and other options have been explored this dog keeps chewing through 16 gauge wire on the fence. If you have any ideas on how to stop this without going the electronic fence route I would really appreciate it. Thanks

 

Answer by sloopy
Submitted on 3/20/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Eyes, nose, mouth; pepper does not work on a Irish Setter

 

Answer by Kel
Submitted on 3/21/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
You can shake your dog by the skin of his or her neck like  mommy dog would and NO I don't mean throw or pick up but shake not hard but firm, and they seem to understand that more then yelling and hitting them

 

Answer by jakamar
Submitted on 3/23/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
This has been hilarious reading some of these responses. We have tried all sorts of non agressive options but the only thing to work so far is  DOG OFF!!  A powder that messes up their senses and they dont want to go anywhere near it.  Lasts 2 weeks but after a  while its meant to deter the dogs from digging  and wee-ing on your lawns.

 

Answer by Zip
Submitted on 3/23/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Place feces in every hole that they dig. Dogs are smart and do not like digging in there own mess.  The trick is to be consistant over a couple of weeks, they will get the hint.  Besides, it is not like you are likely to run out of supplies to put in the hole!

 

Answer by Deerhunter
Submitted on 3/27/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
If you can't stop your dog from digging...Take him to the woods and put a bullet in him or her and then bury it. I gurantee this will never happen again...:))
God, I am so cruel huh? Well, better than a very costly future. It takes approximatley 73 cents to put a bullet in him rather than $1,000.00 to stop the mutt!!!

 

Answer by ANONYMOUS
Submitted on 4/4/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
HAVE YOU EVER CUT YOUR FINGERNAILS TOO SHORT AND WHEN YOU TRY AND GRAB SOMETHING OR PICK SOMETHING UP IT DOESN'T FEEL TOO GOOD ?  IN THIS SAME REGARD, IF YOU CUT YOUR DOGS NAILS RIGHT UP TO THE QUICK AS SHORT AS YOU CAN (WITHOUT CAUSING INJURY) THEN WHEN YOUR DOG GOES TO DIG IT'S NAILS WILL FEEL THAT SENSATION WE FEEL...AND IT WILL STOP DIGGING IMMEDIATELY.  THIS WORKS WITH MY LABRADOR AND HUSKY. GOOD LUCK.

 

Answer by wolftrak
Submitted on 4/17/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
If you are a dog hater... GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!

 

Answer by Becky
Submitted on 4/27/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Although some of these answers are tempting at times I actually do love my two beautiful boxers.  If you can't control your dogs please don't have kids!!

 

Answer by scootbox
Submitted on 4/27/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
The sandbox idea sounds pretty good, especially for puppies.  If you put tile around the pen and build a sandbox in the middle, they would have a place to lay and roll around and run and play and a place to dig.  But how would you make a sandbox in the middle of a dog pen with tile around the outside of it; i.e., how would you contain the sand?

 

Answer by Nuggy's Momma
Submitted on 5/3/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
After reading all of these entries...I'd like to say one thing about all of the derogatory statements that I have read on this "blog"! Apparently there are a few people who have not had proper upbringing and they feel the need to comment un-useful, not to mention cruel statements! I think some parents failed to teach their children one great lesson "If you do not have something nice to say...then don't say anything at all!" Now that I've gotten that out of the way, I would like to thank all of the people who actually took this question (How do I stop my dog from digging) seriously and gave me excellent ideas on how to stop my Labrador from digging at our fence. I will definitely try the sand box idea. My fiance and I are going this weekend to Walmart to get a nice cheap sand box for this digging monster. Thanks so much!

 

Answer by Holly
Submitted on 5/9/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
The best way to stop your dog from digging is: Dont leave him tied up out side too long,He  might bored and dig more holes just for something to do or he can get too hot and the ground cools there feet down.  Take him for a run, play catch with a ball, try to tier him out, dogs have a lot of energy, so you need to beat him out so he dont have any energy to dig. Well I dont have much space left,so I hope this helps you!

 

Answer by All animals are buetiful
Submitted on 5/11/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I tried to put animal feces and my dog still dug it up..Is there any repelant of any kind we could use that any one knows of?

 

Answer by animal rescuer
Submitted on 5/15/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Fill in the hole the dog has dugup til about 4 inches or so to the top.Place tin foil down (cheaper than chicken wire) and then dirt on top of that and you get the same effect.

 

Answer by JenningsMusic
Submitted on 5/15/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Dog feces buried where they dig is the best method and keep their nails trimmed.

 

Answer by wolf
Submitted on 5/17/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
putbroken breks in the hole works unless your a dumbass

 

Answer by MLM Mom
Submitted on 6/4/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
You know what would be really FUN for me?  To do to the ignorant humans what they have suggested they do to smart dogs.  It is really sad and I think there is a special HELL awaiting some of you above.  Dogs AND cats are the only thing on God's green earth that are capable of 100% unconditional love.  Think about it...NO ONE else except GOD loves you unconditionally.  If you don't respect HIS creatures, do you really think one day you will not pay?  

 

Answer by bigdaddy
Submitted on 6/6/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have an unknown neighbor that brings their dog  half a mile to my lawn and it poops everyday on my front lawn. I am trying the broken glass approach.

 

Answer by halfcord
Submitted on 6/9/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Dogs dig!  Get over it!  Or plant asphalt and concrete!  You can paint both green.

 

Answer by Vet
Submitted on 6/9/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
This answer does take some time and lots of patience.  step one.  ignore your dog digging. step two.  wait for your dog to die.  step three.  don't buy another dog.  see problem solved.

 

Answer by Stacia
Submitted on 6/16/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I need some help as well. We have 2 4m old puggles. We have then on an invisible fence. We let them out 3 times a day about an hour each time and then to their small crates. There is plenty of shade and sun areas in this 3/4 acre reign they have. They chew plants, and dig whole by my roses. How do I stop this when I never catch them doing it?

 

Answer by Dog Luver!!!!!!!
Submitted on 6/25/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Since dogs dig when its hot to cool off i suggest blocking off the areas of your yard that contain loose dirt that is in a shadowy place. Plus i really hate the glass idea and chicken wire why cause your loved pet pain? ALSO TO ALL THE SICK IMMATURE PATHETIC LOSA'SWHO THINK THAT CUTTING OFF A DOGS FEET OR EVEN SHOOTING IT IS THE ANSWER....WELL U CAN GO ROT IN HELL BECAUSE CAUSING PAIN LIKE THAT ITS THE ONLY PLACE THAT WILL EXCEPT YOUR CHILDISH INSIGNIFICANT WAYS!!!!!! p.s. to all my dog lovers.....i love u and keep lovin ya dog!

 

Answer by stassielynn
Submitted on 7/6/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I tried using the shock collar and he still likes to dig up the flowers.  He doesnt do anything in the house, maybe i should keep him inside.

 

Answer by tatum
Submitted on 7/10/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
get some pepper

 

Answer by tatum
Submitted on 7/10/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
to stop chewing either get a kennel and when you're gone put the dog in it or what would  cost less is get bitter apple your dog will hate it and HOPEFULLY stop chewing but the dog may like he krate or the bitter apple but hopefully not!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Answer by moonchild
Submitted on 7/11/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have had the same trouble with my Dogs digging, someone told me to place blown up balloons in the holes and recover with dirt, so when the dog goes to dig the balloon will pop and scare the crap out it, So then the dog will start associating that digging is BAD

 

Answer by clavin
Submitted on 7/15/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
Please do not do anything that would hurt your dog.  Putting broken glass in a hole will cut your dogs feet, putting water balloons in a hole may lead to you dog biting the balloon to later choke on the plastic, never use acid on your dog!  How would you like it if someone cut your fingernails then dipped them in acid?

Im not an expert, but im smart enough to realize that some of these people arent either, if conventional methods arent working then please contact your vet before using any of these methods.

 

Answer by troubled
Submitted on 7/18/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
My fox terrier has  an extremely bad habit of digging, esp in yards that arent our own. ive heard putting rocks in the hole and covering with dirt works, but is there anyone that could confirm this? he also has a chewing problem and destroys many hard wearing toys we give him. he seems to get enough exercise too, but is there anything else?? HELP!! (i do not want to get rid of my baby!!)

 

Answer by Ebony
Submitted on 7/20/2007
Rating: Not yet rated Rate this answer: Vote
I have a black lab/collie mix. We found her on our lawn one day and took her in. She is so sweet and gentle but loves to dig. We exercise her all the time and play catch with her. We let her run in the back yard but she takes flip flops and chews them up, and digs. She just can't seem to learn. I don't want to take her to the pound but we can't find her a home. How do i teach her?

 

Your answer will be published for anyone to see and rate.  Your answer will not be displayed immediately.  If you'd like to get expert points and benefit from positive ratings, please create a new account or login into an existing account below.


Your name or nickname:
If you'd like to create a new account or access your existing account, put in your password here:
Your answer:

FAQS.ORG reserves the right to edit your answer as to improve its clarity.  By submitting your answer you authorize FAQS.ORG to publish your answer on the WWW without any restrictions. You agree to hold harmless and indemnify FAQS.ORG against any claims, costs, or damages resulting from publishing your answer.

 

FAQS.ORG makes no guarantees as to the accuracy of the posts. Each post is the personal opinion of the poster. These posts are not intended to substitute for medical, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or other professional advice. FAQS.ORG does not endorse any opinion or any product or service mentioned mentioned in these posts.

 

<< Back to: rec.pets.dogs: Labrador Retrievers Breed-FAQ

[ Home  |  FAQ-Related Q&As  |  General Q&As  |  Answered Questions ]
© 2008 FAQS.ORG. All rights reserved.