How to Stop a Corgi Dog or Puppy Digging
Not many people realize that they are going to have many problems with their new Corgi. The thing is though, the Corgi will have issues just like any other breed. They are not big issues but if ignored they can become issues that at least cause you some trouble. For example, no one likes it with their dog digs up their flower garden or their entire backyard. While some breeds are more prone to digging than others, it is something that all dogs will do at one point or another. If you Corgi puppy or dog is starting a pattern of digging, you want to put a stop to it as soon as possible.
In order to make sure that you are ending the problem as quickly as possible, you want to make sure that you are always with your dog when he ventures outside. Even though you might want to eventually allow your dog to roam the backyard for a majority of the day, it is important that you limit the amount of time he is out there while you are training him not to dig. Whenever your Corgi goes outside, you need to be with him. This way, should he start to dig, you can quickly stop him. Give the “no” or “stop” command and redirect his attention elsewhere.
You can train your Corgi that all digging is unacceptable or you can allow him to only dig in designated areas. You have to decide which route you are going to take and then stick with it. Only when you are consistent will you receive the results that you want. If you allow your Corgi to dig on some days and then days when you are not feeling up to seeing holes you your yard you yell at your little dog to stop digging, you will end up with one very confused dog. This is not something that you want to do to your Corgi.
If you would like to redirect your Corgi to a spot where digging is allowed, you will first need to create that space. Select a corner of your yard or a sandbox filled with dirt or sand that will be the designated dig spot. Place some dog toys in this area and maybe bury a nice bone or two just a couple of inches below the surface. When you notice your Corgi digging in the wrong location, simply give him the command to stop and then take him to the location where you allow digging. When he begins to dig in the right location, you will want to praise him. It will not take much time at all for your Corgi to associate praise and love with digging in the right area of the yard.
If you have decided that you simply do not want your Corgi to dig, you will need to use positive reinforcement every time he goes outside without digging anything up. You might even want to give him a tasty little treat as well. When he does dig, and he will make those mistakes in the beginning, you will want to give the “no” command, distract him, take him inside and he does not get a treat. Soon, your Corgi will realize that the only way to get a treat is to not dig up the backyard.