Dogs have a lot of loveable natural qualities, but they also have some not-so-cute behaviors. Digging is one of the latter, but it can persist as they bury bones, create impromptu shelters, and just feel the dirt between their paws.
This natural behavior can wreak havoc on your yard and garden if it goes unchecked. What is the best way to curb the digging impulse?
The first step in stopping your dog from digging is to determine why he is doing it in the first place. Some dogs just love it.
Some dogs do enjoy the act of digging, but others use it to communicate with you. They may be crying out for attention or more exercise. They may need a shelter to stay warm or cool. They may be burying food. If you've recently put down fertilizer or dug in your garden, your dog may be responding to the scents.
If you have determined that your dog needs more stimulation and is digging as a way of getting attention, you can attack the problem by offering him more opportunities for exercise and interaction. Dog training collars can be a sound technique for solving the problem.
If that doesn't help, your dog may have developed a digging habit! The following suggestions can help:
1. Bury inflated balloons in places where your dog likes to dig. One popped balloon can be a great deterrent.
2. When you refill the holes, add in some of your dog's own feces. The next time he digs there, he will be repelled by it. This may not be a fun way for you to teach your dog, but it is effective and humane.
3. Unpleasant sensations can also help keep your dog from digging. Bury some chicken wire just below the surface of the ground. When his claws scratch the wire, he'll often hate the feeling so much he'll stop.
4. Spray him with a hose. Dogs hate being sprayed, especially in the face. Make sure if you do this that you have caught him in the act of digging or he won’t know why you’re spraying him.
You love your pet; you don't have to love his bad habits too. If digging is a problem, take immediate steps to correct your dog's behavior. He'll be happy, and your yard will thank you. As with click here, training will take hold eventually and your dog will be able to correct bad behaviour.
Clicker Training for Great Dog Behavior
The use of clickers in dog training has increased in recent years. It is a gentle way to condition your dog to repeat good behavior.
Clicker training works on the principle of operant conditioning. This is when a behavior is repeated because a reward is associated with it. Here is some more on how clicker training works:
You hold a small plastic box in your hand. It has a metal strip which produces a clicking sound when pressed.
Ask your dog to perform a command, such as sit, stay, heel, etc. When he does, click right away and give your dog a treat. You are pairing the clicking sound with the treat.
This teaches your dog to connect the behavior with the click. Since the click is associated with the treat, he'll be more apt to perform the good behavior. Eventually, you can phase out the treat, and he will respond to the click. After successful training, you won't need the clicker either.
Clicking is immediate. Dogs need to know exactly what they are being praised for, and the clicking sound helps let them know. This is why the clicker method is so effective for training.
Your dog really wants to make you proud. Using the clicker method is a great way to teach your dog in an effective and humane manner.
Take your pet's training to the next level with potty training a puppy.
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