If you’re looking how to keep dogs from digging under fence, you’ve come to the right place.
When a dog digs its way into your neighbor’s yard or street, it becomes a tremendous inconvenience. Stopping your dog from tunneling under the fence or drilling holes in your yard may seem impossible, but there are several methods like the chicken wire or set large rocks you may use.
As soon as your dog digging starts, it’s crucial to figure out why the irrational digging habits are and help them stop digging. Others are making last-ditch efforts to keep their garden alive. Much more are concerned that their dog will slip through the gap in the fence and get lost.
The first step to controlling your dog’s digging habits is understanding why they are digging a spot, before a lasting solution.
What Causes a Dogs’ Destructive Behavior?
Constant dog digging will defile your yard. Finding out why your dog’s destructive behavior is happening may help you come up with a quick remedy.
Before answering how to keep dogs from digging under fence, let’s first look at reasons they may be digging.
Dogs Need Attention
So, why are they digging? It could be as simple as needing more attention. They’ll try to get your attention however they can. Dog needs continual attention, care, and thrive. When they’re unable to get it, they’ll resort to activities that refocus your attention on digging in your presence after you’ve taught them not to. This is an indication that you and your dog need more time together.
May bury Valuables
Though, very common for dogs to bury some valuables, like bones, near the bottom of the fence. Rather than being driven by a need, this motivation stems from a desire to be liked. What areas of the yard are safe for your dog to explore? If this is the case, you may be able to divert their attention to another spot.
Separation Anxiety
Because he’s bored and seeking anything to do, your dog may start digging under the fence or in your flower beds. The more time you leave him alone, the more prone he is to be bored and depressed. Dogs often experience separation anxiety when their owners leave.
Burrowing Invertebrates
Small rodents or even insect larvae are common prey for many dogs. Beagles and dachshunds are two examples of dogs with a strong prey drive and will go to great lengths to obtain their target.
In this situation, the digging usually occurs near the foot of trees or shrubs. They’re not exactly trying to get out of the yard, but if they’re excavating along the perimeter of your fence, it may happen.
Trying to Get Noticed
Paying attention to your dogs mental stimulation is important. If you’re not paying attention, he’ll dig holes or try to flee as a way to catch your attention. Simply buying dog toys isn’t enough. Spend time with your dog and engaging them in play is great bonding time.
With inadequate attention, he may even indulge in digging habits in front of you. In other words, he’s inviting you to spend some quality time with him. Go for a long walk, get active toys and plenty of things for stimulation, and make sure they get enough exercise.
An Attempt to Escape
Of course, a dog may not be content at home, but he may notice neighbor’s dog or other small animals outside the yard and want to explore.
If your dog has not been neutered or spayed, this may be a common cause of digging. When a dog is looking for a mate, it will often look for the neighbor’s dogs.
How to Keep Dogs from Digging Under Fence
Having learned what not to do, let’s look at some best ways you can adopt to prevent your dog digging. There are plenty of ways to implement effective methods to help your furry friend.
Determining the Reason Your Dog Digs
Start by figuring out why your escape artist has the digging habit. If you skipped over the section above, I suggest going back to see reasons why determined dogs dig. Knowing why your dog is digging under a fence will help you find an effective way to address your dog’s digging behavior.
Extra Playtime
If you see your dog is always digging for amusement, it could bean he or she has excess energy combined with a lack of exercise.. The best way to stop the action is to engage with some exercise. Walking him twice a day is recommended to play with energetic toys like a frisbee.
It is best to use alternative ways if you are sure that he is getting enough attention. It is essential to focus on the positive aspects of his performance rather than focus on the negative aspects of his natural behavior.
Keep Burrowing Animals Out
To keep burrowing creatures out of your yard, if you think your dog is hunting, you’ll need to adopt humane measures. To get rid of them, you don’t want to use any poisonous material to hurt your dog. I suggest calling animal control or a local trapper.
You can also deter rodents by using a mixture of capsicum and pepper. They’ll be unable to get into your yard, which will help stop your dog from digging. To keep them out, install a chain-link fence or bury chicken wire six inches deep around the perimeter of your property.
Physical Barrier
Ok, maybe you’ve tried everything above, but are still experiencing problematic behavior with your digging dog. If there is a certain spot in your fencing where the dog continues to dig, and escapes from, it’s time to cover it up. I suggest putting cinder blocks at the base of the fence. It doesn’t look pretty, but they are too heavy for dogs to move. Another option would be to put dog-friendly plants along the bottom of the fence line.
- cinder blocks
- large landscaping rocks
- Place outdoor fabric along the fence to prevent your dog from seeing what’s on the other side.
Cayenne Pepper
I have not tried this, but Home Guides claims sprinkling cayenne pepper or black pepper along the digging zone will help stop the digging.
Capsicum Spray
This is similar to the concept of cayenne pepper. Capsicum spray is a pepper spray that will cause a burning sensation.
Fences that Stop a Dog From Digging?
Choosing the right fence style for the side of the fence, front, or backyard can be challenging to ensure its safety, aesthetics, and security. After all, there are a lot of variables to take into account.
Fortunately, this will assist dog owners by giving you all the knowledge and guidance you need to make the best option for your family and prevent your dog from escaping. To keep your dog from escaping, below are the three best ways to consider.
Wire fencing made of chain link
For decades, chain link fencing and chicken wire have been the solution for a side of the fences. This material lacks visual appeal, but it makes up for its durability, security, and cost. There are two distinct types of chain link fencing to choose from:
- Galvanized
- Uncoated
A new chain link fence and chicken wire are ideal for every home. Steel that has been galvanized and is less likely to rust. This is also a great way to keep wild animals from coming into your yard.
Fencing made of vinyl
In circumstances where the beauty and solidity of wood necessitate the usage of vinyl fencing, vinyl provides a great alternative. Due to the extreme weather conditions, wood fencing does not last long. For that reason, I think a vinyl fence in the back yard is a great idea. This type of fencing makes a great physical barrier and looks great, too.
Ornamental Steel Fencing
When a chicken wire is not suitable enough, you can add a dash of elegance to your backyard or front porch with ornamental steel fencing. Decorative fencing is a popular fence used in many neighborhoods across America. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this fence style is well-known for its high level of functionality and safety.
I hope you’ve found some solutions on how to keep dogs from digging under fence. Now, let’s look at some of the dog breeds that are likely to do this.
Dog Breeds Prone to Digging through Fences
It’s impossible not to be impressed by the speed and agility with which certain dog breeds dig holes. There’s no sign of fatigue, and they make it look effortless. Exploring is more common in certain dogs than others, and various factors can prompt it.
Digging is a natural tendency for all dogs, but some dog breeds take it a step further than others. You may find your dog scratching or digging at your carpet or bed while the dog searches for the perfect area. To better understand why some dog digging breeds, here are some of the most common culprits:
Dachshund
German dog breeds dig tunnels deep into the dirt to pursue badgers and other animals. When it comes to finding rodents, the dog breed relies on its nose and instincts; he’ll dig up flowerbeds until he’s satisfied.
Beagle
Even though Beagles are known for their hunting prowess, they can hunt above and below ground. Beagle’s dog breeds have been raised for generations to track, and they’ll do whatever it takes to get the job done.
Bedlington terrier
Natural hunters, the Bedlington, dog breeds, are particularly interested in rodents and pests. However, Bedlington’s resemblance to a lamb ends there. When digging for rabbits or rodents, the powerful Belington is unstoppable.
Miniature Schnauzers
The Miniature Schnauzer, initially bred in Germany to hunt rats and mice on farms, is still an effective vermin exterminator today. The Schnauzer’s drive to exterminate rodents may drive him into the ground. The resulting dirt and holes are the downside.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
This dog breed was initially a formidable hunter; the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon also may moonlight as a digger. His high energy level, drive to hunt, and desire for the company make him an excellent digging breed.
Be a Responsible Dog Owner
As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to keep your dog safe in your yard and avoid unattractive holes with a bit of effort. Try the suggestions above. If your dog’s behavior continues, you may want to look into dog training.
A dog trainer or behaviorist can help you improve your dog’s destructive behavior. Give them a call and ask how to keep dogs from digging under fence. They will be glad to share their expertise.
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