How To Stop A Chesapeake Bay Retriever Digging

A Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a highly intellectual and active dog. It is no wonder they take to digging! Unfortunately, your lawn and garden have to pay the price when these dogs setup shop. The best thing to do in this situation is to follow some guidelines that will let your dog dig without destroying your property.

Why do dogs dig holes in the first place? Some common reasons are fear/escape, boredom, heat, burying bones, insect aggravation, exciting, natural disposition and stress. Fear and escape deal with a frightened dog. Generally, this type of behavior is prevalent in an unsuitable living situation (in which case the dog should be moved) or, if you just got the dog, in a new environment. Digging holes under fences is a common method of escape. If you see your Chesapeake Bay Retriever doing this, be sure to console him with positive affection. Let him/her know that he/she is safe in their new environment. Over time, and with lots of love and affection, you will see that digging, as a means of escape, will slowly disappear.

Boredom is a more common source of digging. Leaving your dog at home for hours at a time can be destructive for both your dog and your property. It’s important to properly exercise your dog at least twice a day. Since they are a medium to large breed, they need at least two hours of steady and challenging physical stimulation. By taking your dog to the park and letting it release some excess energy, you will be saving yourself the holes that once used to be your lawn. Instead, you can section off an area for your dog where they are free to dig. Be sure to instruct your dog to respect the boundaries. Once they realize they get their own territory, they’ll reward you with good behavior.

It’s quite common for dogs to dig holes during the warmer summer days. The coolness of the dirt keeps them cool and they often sleep in the holes they dig. To avoid this, be sure to have plenty of shade and water available to your pooch. You can create a tiny pool with some tarp and water as a place for them to lounge when it’s warm outside. Not only will this designate an area for them, but it will also keep them out of your garden.

Some dogs are obsessed with insects. Chasing and inquiring them sometimes leads to digging holes. There is not much you can do to prevent this behavior except reprimanding them in the act of digging. Just be sure to supervise the dog while it’s outside.

Digging holes can often be particular to the breed or a response to excitement or stress. This requires training and a lot of patience. By allotting your animal a space of its own, they can relish in their natural inclinations to dig. The struggle is getting them to understand and respect the boundaries of their area versus your property. With clear direction and assertiveness, it won’t be long before your garden is safe again.

Remember that this problem won’t be solved overnight and it does take some time. Nevertheless, in the end, you will be rewarded for your time and effort.