How to Stop Your Dog from Digging in Flower Beds

Use Dog Poop as a Natural Deterrent

One effective method to stop digging is using your dog’s own poop as a deterrent. Locate every hole your dog has dug—these are their "art projects" and they often return to them. Place a piece of dog poop at the bottom of each hole, then cover it with an inch or two of dirt to hide it. This creates a booby trap: when your dog digs, they’ll hit the poop, which they strongly dislike due to its smell, sight, and taste. Most dogs will stop digging after one or two encounters and avoid the area entirely.

This method works because it turns the dog’s habit into a lesson they learn on their own. If they start a new hole, repeat the process—place poop at the bottom and cover it. Over time, they’ll learn that digging leads to unpleasant consequences, while other areas remain safe.

Create a Designated Digging Pit

Provide your dog with a proper outlet for their natural digging instinct. Set aside a small corner of your yard and build a sandpit or digging zone. Fill it with toys, chew bones, treats, or stuffed Kongs. This pit becomes a treasure trove—your dog will prefer digging there over flower beds because they’re more likely to find something rewarding.

Dr. Ian Dunbar recommends this approach, noting that dogs are more motivated to dig where they’ve found rewards before. Just like gold seekers flocked to California, your dog will return to the pit where they’ve found a “cow’s femur” (or a treat). This satisfies their instinct while protecting your garden.

Redirect Attention 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 or treat to pull their attention to you. Say “Look at me” and reward them for making eye contact. This teaches them to engage with you instead of the ground.

For stubborn dogs, place a treat directly at their nose and move it toward your eyes to encourage focus. This “look at me” technique helps break the digging habit by replacing it with a positive, attention-based behavior. Practice daily until the dog consistently chooses you over digging.

Control the Environment and Supervise

Prevent digging by controlling your dog’s access to problem areas. For older dogs, use a 20-foot leash when outside, allowing freedom to explore but stopping sustained digging. Supervise your dog closely—especially puppies—so you can intervene before digging begins.

High-energy breeds like Labs, huskies, and Samoyeds are more prone to digging due to boredom. Ensure they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and toys. Without a job, they’ll create one—so give them a purpose.

Be Patient and Consistent

Stopping digging takes time and repetition. Some dogs may return to old holes a few times before learning the lesson. Others may start new holes, which is normal. Simply reapply the poop trap or reinforce the digging pit.

Consistency is key. Every time your dog digs in the wrong place, redirect or use the deterrent. Over time, they’ll learn that digging in the pit is the only way to get rewards—while flower beds remain off-limits.