How To Stop A Cairn Terrier Digging
A Cairn Terrier is a breed that is made for hunting, so it is normal for this type of dog to have some issues with digging. Terriers, in general, are digging dogs that are led by natural instinct to dig. While this may help them if they are hunting vermin, it is not the ideal behavior for a dog kept as a pet. Most pet owners want to learn how to get their dog to stop digging.
As the owner of a Cairn Terrier you must be aware that digging is a huge problem that you must get under control right away. This may be a small dog, but give a just a short amount of time alone in the yard and you will be shocked at the damage he can do. Getting your dog to stop digging can be tricky. The best way to approach this situation with a terrier breed is to recognize their need to dig while also controlling it. You may not get him to ever stop digging completely, so if you recognize this upfront it will make the process easier.
Designated Digging
Provide your dog a spot where he is allowed to dig. When he digs outside that spot, just redirect him to the designated area. The designated area can be a special spot in the yard or you can create one by building him a sandbox. If you use a sandbox you might want to plant some grass on top since dogs seem to prefer digging in grassy areas.
It can take sometime to teach your dog that he can only dig in a certain spot. You will need to stay on top of things for a while. Every time that your dog tries to dig in a spot other than the designated are you have to act quick. Make sure that he knows it is not okay and be vocal about it. Tell him no and remove him from the area. When he is digging in the right area make sure you give him lots of praise.
Praise, Don’t Punish
Avoid punishing your dog for digging in the wrong spot. Punishment only confuses a dog. It is much better to redirect him and praise him for good digging. You also can’t punish him if you do not catch him in the act. He will have no idea why he is getting in trouble. Redirecting him will only work if you catch him digging, too.
If your dog is having difficulties digging just in the designated area then you can block off areas that you do not want him to dig in. Allow him only access to the designated area. Eventually you will be able to remove the barriers and he will know to only dig in the designated area.
Digging is something that a Cairn Terrier will always have a desire to do. Instead of forcing him to abandon his natural tendencies, you should redirect him. A terrier needs somewhere that he can dig freely. It is a great way for him to get rid of excess energy and keeps him busy and stimulated. Designated digging areas are the perfect solution to terrier digging problems as they give him a place to dig, but keep the digging under control.