Dogs dig for a variety of reasons, including boredom, prey drive, comfort, attention seeking, and instinct. While training and providing adequate physical and mental stimulation are the best ways to curb unwanted digging, some smells can also deter dogs from digging in certain areas.
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Why Do Dogs Dig?
Digging is a natural behavior for dogs that serves several purposes. Some of the main reasons dogs dig include:
- Boredom – Dogs may dig to occupy themselves when left alone for long periods without stimulation or exercise.
- Prey drive – The instinct to hunt small animals that live underground can trigger digging.
- Comfort – Digging in the dirt or sand provides a cool spot to lie down.
- Attention seeking – Dogs may dig to get their owner’s attention.
- Instinct – Digging is an innate behavior passed down from their wolf ancestors who dug dens.
Certain breeds like terriers are more prone to digging due to their history of hunting rodents. However, any dog may dig excessively if their physical and mental needs are not being met.
Best Ways to Stop Unwanted Digging
Before trying smells or products to stop digging, it’s best to address the underlying cause. Some positive training techniques and lifestyle changes can help curb excessive digging:
- More exercise – Make sure your dog gets at least 30-60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day.
- Mental stimulation – Provide puzzle toys, hide treats for them to find, take them new places to explore and smell.
- Discourage digging in unwanted spots – Supervise your dog outside and interrupt any digging behaviors with a firm “No.” Block access to tempting areas.
- Provide an acceptable digging pit – Designate an area where it’s okay for your dog to dig and reward them for using it.
- Manage boredom and separation anxiety – Spend quality time together every day. Avoid leaving dogs alone for long periods.
- obedience training – Work on commands like “Leave it” so they learn to avoid unwanted behaviors like digging on cue.
Smells Dogs Dislike to Deter Digging
While training is best, certain smells may discourage dogs from digging in off-limit areas when applied close to the ground. Smells dogs find unpleasant or overwhelming can act as a repellent. Some common smells dogs don’t like include:
Citrus Oils
Citronella oil, lemon oil, orange oil, lime oil and grapefruit oil all produce scents that dogs generally find offensive. You can apply these diluted oils around the perimeter of areas you want your dog to avoid digging.
Vinegar
Most dogs strongly dislike the scent of vinegar. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be sprayed or sprinkled in areas where you don’t want your dog digging.
Ammonia
The strong odor of ammonia is unpleasant and overwhelming for canine senses. A diluted ammonia solution can be sprayed on items or areas you want your dog to ignore.
Menthol
The smell of menthol comes from compounds like peppermint and eucalyptus oils. These scents are very potent and can deter dogs from digging in yards or gardens.
Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds contain aromatic oils that give off smells dogs dislike. Spread grounds around flowerbeds, trees, or other areas prone to dog digging.
Pipe Tobacco
The tobacco smell from used pipe tobacco can also deter dogs. Sprinkle used tobacco shreds from a pipe around your yard or plants.
Cayenne Pepper
For dogs that don’t care about citrus or vinegar, sprinkling cayenne powder may do the trick. Be careful not to use too much, as it can also irritate your dog’s paws and nose.
Chili Pepper
Chili pepper powder or hot sauce creates irritation and burning sensations dogs want to avoid. Apply it carefully to garden borders or digging hot spots.
Black Pepper
Regular ground black pepper has a spicy smell and taste dogs don’t like. It’s less intense than cayenne or chili but still effective for some dogs.
Aluminum Foil or Plastic Mats
Laying aluminum foil or plastic mats over dirt can discourage digging with an unpleasant texture. The crinkly sound foil makes when moved can also deter dogs.
Key Tips When Using Smells as Dog Repellents
If you want to try using scents to curb digging, keep these tips in mind:
- Check for any health concerns first – Make sure your dog doesn’t have allergies or breathing issues.
- Test smells in small areas first – Apply to a small test patch before wide use in case of irritation or other adverse effects.
- Reapply frequently – Scents fade with weather and need reapplying every few days.
- Avoid dog’s face – Don’t apply near their food, water or areas they regularly sniff and lick.
- Use multiple deterrents – Combine several smells and textures to increase effectiveness.
- Supervise your dog – Make sure the smells are not impacting their well-being or health.
- Talk to your vet – Consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about deterrent products.
Conclusion
While training is the best long-term solution for compulsive digging, smells like citrus, vinegar, pepper and menthol can help deter dogs who are prone to digging in unwanted areas. Strong scents overwhelm a dog’s sensitive nose and make them avoid spots where the smells are applied. When used safely and correctly, anti-digging sprays and powders can be a useful part of managing excessive digging behaviors in pet dogs.