Best Ways to Stop Your Dog from Digging Up the Lawn

Redirect Digging Behavior with Training

When your dog starts to dig or shows signs of digging—like sniffing a favorite spot—immediately redirect their focus. Use a toy or treat to grab their attention. For example, place a treat at their nose, then bring it to your eyes while saying “Look at me.” This teaches your dog to shift attention from digging to you. Repeat this daily until the habit fades. This method works best when you supervise your dog closely, especially puppies.

Create a Designated Digging Box

Instead of punishing your dog for digging, teach them where it’s okay. Build a digging box—a small, shallow pit filled with loose soil—where your dog can dig freely. This satisfies their natural instinct to dig, whether for cool earth, burying toys, or nesting. Once trained, your dog will go to the digging box when the urge strikes, just like they go to a chew toy or bathroom spot. This method is especially effective if your dog digs due to boredom or natural instinct.

Use a Poop Booby Trap (Proven Method)

One highly effective method involves using your dog’s own poop to discourage digging. Locate all existing holes, place a piece of dog poop at the bottom of each, cover with dirt, and let it sit. When your dog digs again, they’ll hit the poop and react with disgust—due to smell, sight, and taste. This teaches them that digging leads to unpleasant consequences. Repeat for new holes. This method works because it turns the dog’s habit into a lesson they learn on their own.

Address Root Causes: Boredom and Energy

Many dogs dig out of boredom or excess energy. High-energy breeds like Labs, Huskies, and Shiba Inus are especially prone. To prevent this, increase daily exercise—running, fetch, or off-leash play—until your dog is physically tired. Also, use interactive toys like the Buster Cube or Roll-A-Treat Ball to make mealtime a mental challenge. A tired, mentally stimulated dog is less likely to dig.

Control the Environment and Prevent Access

If your dog digs to escape, especially near fences, prevent access by burying fencing at least a foot underground. For ongoing control, use a long leash (20 feet) when outside to allow exploration while stopping digging. Keep your dog indoors during extreme heat or cold, or provide cool pads, shaded beds, or insulated shelters. Never leave your dog tied outside—this increases boredom and digging.