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Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. If you’ve ever come home to chewed-up shoes or a yard that looks like a construction zone, you’re not alone. Chewing and digging are natural behaviors for dogs, but when they happen in the wrong places, they can be frustrating. The good news? With a little understanding and some practical strategies, you can redirect these behaviors and save your belongings (and your yard).
Let’s explore why dogs chew and dig, and how you can manage these behaviors in a positive, force-free way.
1. Why Do Dogs Chew and Dig?
Chewing and digging aren’t just random acts of destruction—they serve a purpose for your dog. Common reasons include:
Exploration: Dogs use their mouths and paws to explore the world around them.
Boredom: Lack of mental or physical stimulation can lead to destructive behaviors.
Anxiety or Stress: Chewing and digging can be coping mechanisms for dogs feeling anxious or stressed.
Instincts: Digging is often a throwback to behaviors like burying food or creating cool spots to rest.
Teething (in Puppies): Young pups chew to soothe sore gums.
Understanding the root cause is the first step to managing these behaviors effectively.
2. Strategies for Managing Destructive Chewing
Provide Appropriate Chew Items
Offer a variety of durable, dog-safe chew toys. Rotate them regularly to keep your dog’s interest.
For teething puppies, frozen KONGs or wet washcloths can provide soothing relief.
Supervise and Redirect
If you catch your dog chewing something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to an appropriate item.
Reward them when they chew the correct item to reinforce good behavior.
Limit Access to Temptations
Keep shoes, remote controls, and other tempting items out of reach.
Use baby gates or closed doors to manage access to certain areas.
Increase Mental and Physical Stimulation
Daily walks, puzzle toys, and training sessions can tire your dog out and reduce boredom.
Enrichment activities like scent games or treat-dispensing toys can keep their minds occupied.
3. Strategies for Managing Digging
Understand the Motivation
If your dog digs in specific spots, it may give you clues about their motivation:
Digging in cool soil might mean they’re hot.
Digging along fences could indicate they’re trying to escape or investigate something.
Random digging might be a sign of boredom.
Provide an Appropriate Digging Spot
Create a designated digging area, such as a sandbox or a corner of your yard. Bury toys or treats to encourage them to dig there.
Reward your dog for using the digging spot to reinforce the behavior.
Prevent Access to Problem Areas
Use chicken wire or landscaping fabric to block off areas where digging isn’t allowed.
Provide plenty of shade and a cooling mat if your dog is digging to escape the heat.
Increase Stimulation
Just like with chewing, digging is often a sign that your dog needs more physical and mental exercise.
Add games like fetch or tug-of-war to their routine, or try canine sports like agility for extra engagement.
4. What Not to Do
Avoid Punishment: Punishing your dog for chewing or digging can increase anxiety and damage your bond. Instead, focus on redirecting and rewarding appropriate behaviors.
Don’t Ignore the Cause: Chewing and digging are often signs of unmet needs. Addressing the root cause is more effective than simply managing the symptoms.
5. When to Seek Help
If destructive behaviors persist despite your efforts, it may be time to consult a certified behavior consultant or veterinarian. Chronic chewing or digging can sometimes signal underlying anxiety or health issues that need to be addressed.
Final Thoughts
Pet parents, chewing and digging are natural behaviors for dogs, but that doesn’t mean your home or yard has to suffer. With understanding, patience, and consistent training, you can guide your dog toward more appropriate outlets for their energy and instincts.
Have questions or need personalized strategies to address your dog’s chewing or digging? Reach out—I’m here to help you and your pup find the balance you’re looking for!
Carlos F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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