Dog Is Digging Too Much

by James Glover
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I've noticed recently that my dog has been digging in our backyard. I've researched online on reasons why they dig and it's because of either shelter, hunting, for fun, or boredom. The problem is she's been going underneath our beds and starts digging there. I want to know why this is so. (Audie Reyes - California)

Well done for researching this problem. One reason you may have failed to come across is that of nutrition. This may seem like an odd suggestion, but some breeds, such as Bullmastiffs, are prone to seeking out and either chewing or eating various underground vegetative growths and iron-rich soil.

As far as I am aware there is no scientific research based on this suggestion, and there is certainly no need to rush out and buy dietary supplements, but your dog may be seeking bulbs, tubers and other such growths. If he seems to be chewing at something then this may well be the reason.

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Readers' Comments (Newest to Oldest)

rans54

New York

Junior Member

Added on July 5th, 2009
I have found the solution for dogs digging in the yard, suggested by a vet friend. As crazy as it sounds, a human male must urimate in the hole the dog made...it doesn't have to be alot, just enough. The dog thinks another male dog has entered his or her teritory. Do this a few times and the digging will stop. I've always done this with our dogs and it works every time. Just do this after dark!