Spring Fever

Question: Help! Why is my dog digging holes all over the yard all of a sudden?

Answer: Our canine friends are not all that different from us when it comes to Spring. When the sun starts to shine, the wind picks up, and the temperature climbs, we all want to go out and do something. This something can be walking, running, hiking, playing a sport or even working in the yard. Well, our animal friends feel it too. The birds seem to multiply, as do the squirrels, chipmunks and other wildlife. The cat is scratching to get out and the dog... well, the dog can't wait to get out there too!

Our canine companions are not as structured as we are in their display of appreciation for Spring. Typically, Spring fever behavior for them includes jumping, barking, digging, and chewing, to name a few. They just can't contain their excitement. We focus our energy on certain organized activities. Our dogs do not necessarily know what to do with all the extra energy.

As caring and ingenious dog owners, we can be one step ahead. This means don't wait for your dog to start getting into trouble -- take action NOW. Plan on getting up early and taking a slightly longer walk, do one more session of obedience work, try joining a group or club activity with your dog, and most importantly, find new things to teach. One of the main reasons dogs misbehave is due to boredom. So once you have a fully charged dog with sight, sound and smell, it is best to engage him in the activity of your choice instead of letting him find one of his own.

In answer to your question specifically about digging, it helps to look for the root cause of the digging. Is your dog seeking: entertainment, prey, protection or comfort, attention, or escape? The Humane Society of the United States makes specific recommendations to address each of these issues, click here to read more. A few suggestions for the determined digger include:

• Provide an acceptable digging area - pick a part of the yard for your dog to dig. Show her that spot when she starts to dig and praise her for using it. Think of it like house-training. Bury safe, fun items for your dog to discover in the digging spot.
• Make previous digging spots inaccessible and unacceptable by covering them with rock, chicken wire, or dog poop.

Remember, your dog isn't digging to make you mad. There's something driving him to it. Take some time to figure that out and address it and you will both be happily and peacefully enjoying the beautiful Spring-time weather in no time!

Every month or so, Sonia will answer questions from our members. To submit a question, please email us with the word "TRAINER" in the subject line. We regret that Sonia won't be able to respond personally to every question.

For more information about Sonia's services, please contact Sonia at:
Canine Techniques
www.CanineTechniques.com
603-475-5295
SMullen@CanineTechniques.com