Dog Digs Under Fence? Stop It With These Proven Tips

Why Dogs Dig Under Fences

Digging is a natural behavior rooted in instinct. Wild canines dig to bury food, find cool or warm earth, or escape confinement. For breeds like Shibas, digging often signals an attempt to run away. Dogs may also dig to chase underground creatures like moles or mice. Understanding the cause—whether it’s boredom, heat, or a desire to escape—is key to stopping the behavior.

Redirect the Behavior With Toys and Treats

When you see your dog about to dig, redirect their focus immediately. If they start sniffing a favorite spot, use a toy to shift their attention to you. Play tug or fetch to make interacting with you more rewarding than digging. If they’re uninterested, use a treat as a bridge: place it at their nose, then bring it to your eyes while saying “Look at me.” This “leave it/look at me” combo teaches them to focus on you instead of the ground. Practice daily until the habit fades.

Create a Digging Box to Channel the Instinct

Instead of just saying “don’t dig,” teach your dog where to dig. Build a digging box—just a small area in the yard with loose dirt—and encourage your dog to use it. Once they learn to dig there, they’ll naturally go to the box when the urge strikes. This method works best when combined with mental and physical exercise. Give your dog interactive toys like a Buster Cube or Roll-A-Treat Ball to keep them occupied. Feeding them this way turns mealtime into a game, reducing the energy for digging.

Use a Booby Trap With Dog Poop

A proven method involves turning the dog’s own poop into a deterrent. After finding all existing holes, place a piece of your dog’s poop at the bottom of each. Cover it with an inch or two of dirt to hide it. When your dog digs again, they’ll hit the poop and react with disgust—due to smell, sight, and taste. This usually stops them from returning to that spot. If they start new holes, repeat the process. This method works best when the dog can’t see you doing it, making it a “remote” correction.

Control the Environment to Prevent Digging

Prevention is key. Keep your dog on a 20-foot leash when outside so you can stop digging before it starts. For escape-prone dogs, bury fencing at least a foot below ground to block under-digging. Avoid tying your dog outside for long periods—this leads to boredom and digging. Instead, bring them inside or cover the yard with crushed stone. If your dog digs to cool down, provide a shaded, elevated bed or a water-absorbing cooling pad. For winter, ensure they have a warm, insulated shelter or indoor access.