Why Is My Dog Digging Under the Fence? Boise, ID

Homeowners have a lot to manage, from the interior to the exterior of their home to landscaping and maintaining their residential fence in addition to the ins and outs of everyday life. Throw some kids and a pet or two into the mix, and we know things can get pretty hectic pretty quickly! Any one issue can throw the balance off, and we understand how frustrating it can be when a problem prolongs itself. One undesired phenomena that dog owners may experience is when their furry friend begins digging under their fence. 

Why is my dog digging under my fence? 

The first step to resolving this issue is to identify the reason that your pup is digging under the fence. Simply put, most dogs dig holes along or under a fence because they either want to get to something beyond the fence or to get away. Some of the motivations behind this may be: 

• Anxiety or fear: different dogs have different personalities, and some dogs are stressed more easily than others. Your dog might perceive something in your yard as a threat, or panic over an approaching thunderstorm, or simply feel stressed from being confined in your yard. All of these things can drive your dog to feel compelled to leave your yard. 

• Protectiveness: especially common among guardian breeds, a dog may dig under a fence if they think something beyond your yard line is a threat. This obviously presents a safety issue on all fronts, so it’s especially important to resolve this issue if you believe overprotectiveness is motivating your furry friend.  

• Boredom: breeds that are known for being smart often need something to keep them occupied, and if they don’t have enough stimulus, they may turn to digging simply to keep themselves occupied. Increased enrichment can help curb boredom.  

• Loneliness: some dogs need more companionship than others. If your pup doesn’t like being alone, they may be digging simply because they’re seeking a way to get closer to you, passersby, or other dogs. 

How To Stop Your Dog From Digging Under Your Fence

Once you’ve figured out why your dog is digging under the fence, or you at least have a bit of an idea why, you can work towards eliminating that reason. If there’s anything in your yard that makes your pup feel unsettled, remove it; if your dog needs more stimulus, provide new toys or other enrichment. If you don’t resolve the issue from the source, your dog is likely to revert to the behavior. Some ideas for how to curb their behavior include: 

1. Fill any present holes: sometimes, dogs just like to dig where a hole already exists. If your pup keeps returning to the same spot, this may be why. 

2. Gather large rocks and half-bury them along the bottom of the fence line. The harder it is for your pup to dig, the more likely they are to give up the endeavor.

3. Place chain link fencing on the ground along the fence line, which will discourage your dog from approaching the fence. Using gravel or other materials that a dog would find uncomfortable to walk on or dig through will also do the trick. 

4. Bury chicken wire at the base of the fence, making sure that any sharp edges are pointed away from anywhere where your dog might be digging.

5. Create a designated digging area where they can dig undisturbed. Some dogs dig for entertainment, and redirecting where your dog is digging may be easier than preventing your pup from digging entirely. 

6. Increase physical activity: if your pup is digging to burn off energy, taking longer walks, going to the dog park, agility training, and more play can channel that energy into less destructive methods. 

With all the options you have to help your dog stop digging under your fence, there are a few things in mind. Be mindful that any solutions you try will not expose your pup to harmful chemicals and that there are no hazards that increase the risk of injury. While reprimanding your pup if caught in the act may have an effect, expressing disapproval if you discover a hole after the fact will not accomplish anything besides confusing your pup. 

Most residential fences are made of either vinyl or cedar wood; while these materials are typically durable enough not to be damaged even if your pup is digging, the professionals at Certified Fencing are happy to come examine your fence for any damages or needed repairs. We serve Boise, Kuna, Caldwell, Nampa, Meridian, Fruitland, Middleton, Twin Falls, Eagle, Star, ID, and all surrounding areas. Fill out our contact form or call (208) 449-2040