How to Stop a Yorkshire Terrier Digging

All dogs enjoy digging. There are many reasons for this, but the most common is that it gives them something to do. Yorkshire Terriers, like all terrier breeds, were originally bred for hunting and for catching vermin, such as mice and rats. Later, people stopped using them for hunting vermin and made them lap pets. While they make excellent companions, the desire to dig was still there. A Yorkshire Terrier will dig anywhere that there is access to any kind of dirt or sand. It very difficult to teach them not to dig, however, it is easier to do so as a puppy.

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Training a Yorkshire Terrier not to dig can begin with a simple control of the access that the dog has to an area to dig. If you watch your dog while you are walking, he will be less likely to dig at all. However, when the owner is not around, the Yorkshire Terrier will start digging again. If you are taking your dog out for a walk to go to the bathroom, do only that. Once they have finished going to the bathroom, take them back inside. Ensuring that they do not have a chance to dig is the first key to training them not to dig.

You can also keep them from digging by using a distraction method. When you see them digging, get their attention with a toy. Toys that keep them busy, like dogs toys that can hide treats inside them, will keep their minds occupied long enough that they will not think about digging. You will also want to keep a close eye on your Yorkshire Terrier. Do not leave him outside alone, even if your yard is fenced in. A dog that is left alone will get bored and will dig under the fence and run away. Keeping your dog well occupied can keep your dog from developing further behavioral issues.

It is best to reward your dog for any good behavior that they display. Having the opportunity to dig and not taking the opportunity deserves a reward. Stopping the behavior on a command also will merit a reward. However, you must first start a base of commands. Association techniques can also help. When your Yorkshire Terrier begins to dig, give a sharp, sudden sound that startles them. The sound of a fog horn can do the trick. Just a short burst of noise and the dog will eventually associate digging with a scary noise. When they come to you after being startled, reward them for not digging. After a time, the actions will begin to be associated with positive behavior and the negative behavior will be modified.

Once your dog has learned not to dig, it is still not a good idea to leave them in a yard alone. They may begin to exhibit some of the same behavior and will begin digging again. Keep your pet well occupied and inside when you are not home. This is the best way to ensure that the Yorkshire Terrier will not dig at the yard.