Labradors have and always will be smart dogs that just can’t stand to sit still. To be happy, Labradors need do be around people and other dogs often. Otherwise, they can get bored. Labradors really like to dig when they don’t get the attention that they crave. To keep this issue from happening, you have to really understand what causes the issue in the first place.

First off, you need to know that digging is an instinctive behavior for a dog. Digging may be triggered by a number of things. In the wild, a dog may dig a hole to hide its food, escape the weather or just for entertainment. If you want to stop your Lab from digging, you need to watch him and figure out what is causing him to dig.

The First Step

If bones or food is being buried, then do not give him the opportunity to bury these by not giving them to your dog at all. On the other hand, you could allow your dog to have her favorite toys and foods, just don’t let them go out the door. Keep them in the house where there isn’t an opportunity to bury them.

Want a quicker answer? Click here to read more on how to deal with dog digging problems.

A pup that is in hot or cold weather may have dig a hole to cool off/warm up. If this is the case, give your Labrador Retriever a shady area for hot days and a nice warm place to get out of the wind and cold. A dog house can go a long ways in proving shelter for your Lab.

Is your dog digging to get to something on the other side of the fence? If so, you have a larger problem on your hands. Being so social, Labrador Retrievers don’t do well when the are by them selves for extended periods. Your dog may be digging because he is lonely.

There are a few ways you can solve this type of labrador digging problem. Begin with plenty of exercise for your dog. Dogs love “play” exercise – throw a ball or go for a run. If you have to leave the dog alone, give him plenty of toys to play with while you’re out.

If nothing else works, try giving your dog a special place to dig. Train her to dig there using treats as a reward. As a last resort, bury chicken wire where your Labrador Retriever likes to dig. The chicken wire is uncomfortable on his paws and should stop the digging.

Really though, the best overall method is to just not leave your Labrador alone in the yard. Try sectioning off a part of the yard to keep her in when you are out. This will confine any yard damage to one area

Digging by your Labrador can be stopped. It can be as easy as giving alternatives to the reasons that your dog is digging. Always remember that discliplining your dog for digging won’t help. This will only serve to hinder the problem. Finding a diversion for your dog’s energy is a much better option. Lots of love and exercise goes a long way to a happy, healthy Labrador Retriever. Giving your dog a lot of love and positiveness will make you a great dog trainer.