Dogs have a natural tendency to dig. When digging, your dog may want to reach what’s under the ground or even find a comfortable place to relax. But, of course, you want to prevent him from digging through your garden, rug, or couch. Redirecting him to another activity, such as a distraction toy, can help.
Here are the 5 best distraction toys for dogs that love to dig:
A great way to have fun with your dog best friend is to interact with him using a flirting pole. The flirting pole consists of a PVC pole with a rope going through it. A toy is attached at the end. Waving the toy around for your puppy to chase and catching the toy at the end of the line will use their natural hunting abilities. One point for you, not for your garden. Cost $28.99.
Use a squeaky toy to get your dog’s attention – and then play! While not really invincible, this toy is pretty solid. The Invincible toy line features a Dura-Tuff inner lining and a double-seam exterior with a plush finish. They are happy when a dog fetches (Read here about teaching your dog to grab) and to drag. Their many squeals make toys very appealing and can even make a puppy forget that he wants to dig. Cost $24.99.
What dog doesn’t love a tennis ball? These Kong balls come in a variety of sizes and have squeaks to lure your puppy to play. Picking up this fun ball will help your dog forget about your rugby digging plans. Cost $13.99.
- Puzzle toy for dogs who love to dig (Here are our top 6)
There are many toys that attract the dog’s attention solve a puzzle. He may have to roll the toy or push or pull different parts to get the precious little candies and snacks that will be distributed. The fun – not to mention food – that these toys offer can help lure a dog away from digging.
Although most dogs will enjoy playing with some or all of the above toys, some still have a need to dig. This is especially true of terriers like Westies or Cairn Terriers, which were bred to hunt insects. But don’t despair: There’s even a toy for digging. The iFetch iDig Stay toy Encourage a dog to dig the toy itself. You can hide your puppy’s toys and treats for extra excitement. And it’s even washable! Cost $99.99.
Why do dogs dig?
Dogs dig the floor or the ground for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s closely connected to the dog’s DNA, sometimes it’s related to the puppy’s environment. Reasons dogs dig include:
- boring
- deeply ingrained behavior
- Excitement
- Stress and anxiety
- Medical problems
- It’s fun!
- seeking attention
- To hide valuable items
- nesting behavior
- To control their temperature
How to stop your dog from digging
After ruling out any medical problems or stress, use toys and play to help release excess energy. Exercise both his body and mind.
Playing with your dog strengthens your bond. Play fetch (this is how to teach your dog to throw) or use other interactive toys, such as the digging dog toys I listed above.
It’s more important to make his environment fun than digging.
Digging is a natural canine behavior. But there are plenty of toys that you can use to help keep your dog from digging. They will save your carpet and furniture. As an added bonus, both of you will have fun using them!
