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| The Secrets Of Stopping Your Dog From Digging |
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By Dr. Mayra Alfonso
Almost all dogs dig holes one time or another. The reason for dogs digging may go way back to when dogs weren't domesticated animals. Just like a wolf will bury its kill in the summertime to get back to it when food is less plentiful, your dog will often bury his bone in your backyard. Dog digging is natural in dogs, it's a common behavior. But, what are some other reasons that dogs dig? There are several reasons why dogs dig. It's not easy to stop your dog from digging, especially because the digging often happens when you are not around.
Other causes of the dog digging are, to keep itself warm, or cool. For instance, in the summertime, if your dog is outdoors for some period of time, he may dig a hole in the ground because it's cool. If it's in the wintertime, the hole enables him to stay warm. One uncomplicated amends for this kind of conduct is, if the least bit possible, not allow your dog outdoors for very long. But, this isn't all of the time a practical solution. Dog digging can turn into a behavioral problem which requires a solution and dog behavioral training. Most dogs love to dig, but digging turns into a problem when it becomes an excessive habit. A problematic reason why a dog dig is boredom.
This is rather a difficult one to cure, as the dog will only dig while you're not around, it stands to reason, if you're at the place, then he's less likely to become bored. You need to think back that dogs are, on the whole intelligent creatures, and that they need to be stimulated, otherwise this will turn into destructive behavior. Digging holes is as well an indication that your dog isn't getting adequate physical exercise. He can't tell you what he lacks, therefore digging a hole is his method of releasing all that additional vitality. You only have to observe your dog for a couple of minutes whilst he's digging to realize just how much energy he puts into digging the hole, and oftentimes how delighted he seems to be when he has finished! Whatever the cause your dog is digging holes, it's in all likelihood something that you want to stop. If he only digs in front of you, then a simple ‘No' command over a few dog training sessions may be sufficient. You can as well try to direct his attention to something else, like a toy or a treat. If the digging is done when you're away then it needs a different approach.
A technique you'll be able to use is that when you next notice a new hole in the yard, put a stake into the center of it and tie your dog to the stake with a leash. Then allow him to stay there for a little while, close to twenty minutes will generally do the trick. Do this every time that you discover a new hole – be patient – it may take a few attempts. Sooner or later the dog will come to associate digging holes with being tied up, and will stop. Don't leave the dog tied up for a long time, as, number one isn't fare to the dog, and number two, the dog will dig more, out of boredom.
What I discovered to be most effective was to exercise the dog. The dog will be so tired after exercise that he might not have any energy left to dig. Never scream at your dog for digging a hole. If he's looking for attention, then in his eyes, attention is attention. He would rather receive nice attention, but shouting will work for him as well. Make sure that the attention he receives is for the good stuff. If none of this work and alternative is to cover the holes he makes, so he can't keep digging on them. But, this doesn't always work.
Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I've used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso's dog training blog right now…
Source:www.isnare.com
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| This article was published on Saturday 19 April, 2008. |
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