How to Stop Your Dog from Digging Under the Fence

Bury the Fence Deep and Wide

To stop a determined digger, bury the fence at least six inches deep, and extend the buried section 12 inches under the ground toward the yard. This prevents your dog from tunneling underneath. If you only bury the fence two inches, your dog will simply dig deeper. For extra security, extend the trench a foot past each end of the gate to block escape attempts near the entry point.

Use Rocks, Blocks, or Concrete to Block Digging

Lay large rocks, concrete blocks, or stones—each at least the size of a softball—end to end in the trench under the fence. These materials are too heavy for most dogs to move. The goal is to create a solid barrier that stops digging before it starts. If using rocks, ensure they’re too big for your dog to shift. This method is especially effective for small to medium dogs, but larger dogs need bigger, heavier materials.

Add a Deterrent Layer Above the Barrier

After placing rocks or blocks, cover the trench with tightly packed dirt and then add a layer of pea gravel or another hard ground cover. This makes the area uncomfortable to dig in. Dirt is easy to move, but gravel is not. Once your dog hits the gravel or hard material, he’ll likely give up and try another spot—especially if the trench is wider than the gate, forcing him to search elsewhere.

Secure the Gate with a Cement Pad

The gate is often the weakest point. Since you can’t bury the gate, install a cement pad at the base. This creates a solid, unyielding foundation that prevents digging. You can also reinforce the gate area with concrete blocks or large stones laid in a trench around it. This ensures the entire fence perimeter is escape-proof.

Use Wire or Hardware Cloth for Wooden Fences

For wooden fences, dig down a foot or two, then attach sturdy wire or hardware cloth to the bottom of the fence panel. Drill holes in the wood and secure the metal sheeting with wire. Extend the wire a few feet beyond the fence line and cover it with packed dirt and gravel. This creates a seamless underground barrier that’s difficult for dogs to penetrate.