In partnership with

Your daily dose of doggy goodness!

Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

Dog of the Day: Ernest!

Meme of the day: Rule number 1 is to be comfy!

Dig It: Why Dogs Are Digging Fiends

If you’ve ever watched your dog enthusiastically dig up your backyard or try to burrow into the couch cushions, you might have wondered, Why does my dog dig? Digging is a natural behavior that can be driven by many factors, including instinct, boredom, or even the need for comfort.

Now, not all dogs will do this and some will do it with more enthusiasm than you’ve ever had in your life. But that’s knowing why your furry friend is doing it can help you manage and redirect this behavior to benefit both of you—since it’s not totally universal, many dog owners haven’t experienced a diggy dog.

Good ‘Ol Doggie Instincts

Many dogs have an innate desire to dig, often rooted in their ancestry. Certain breeds, such as Terriers, Dachshunds, and Huskies, have historically been bred for tasks that involve digging, such as hunting, burrowing animals, or creating shelters in harsh climates. Even if your pup is a mixed breed, these natural instincts can still come into play.

Seeking Comfort and Shelter

Digging is sometimes a way for dogs to create a comfortable resting spot. In hot weather, dogs may dig to find cool soil to lie on, while in colder conditions, they may burrow to create warmth. If your dog is frequently digging in specific areas, it could be their way of making a cozy nest—especially if that includes some comfy blankets.

They Don’t Dig Boredom

If dogs aren’t getting enough physical and mental stimulation, they might turn to digging for entertainment. Digging can be an enjoyable way to burn energy, especially for high-energy breeds. Ensuring your pup gets plenty of exercise and interactive play can help reduce unwanted digging.

Playing Pirate — Hiding the Treasure

Some dogs have a habit of burying their favorite treats, bones, or toys. This behavior stems from their ancestors, who had to hide food to protect it from scavengers. If you notice your dog digging only when they have something special, they may simply be following their natural instinct to stash away prized possessions. That’s the case for our editor’s pup, Puggsley, who thinks the couch is THE BEST spot to bury treats that are a little bigger than normal.

Hunting or Prey Drive

Dogs with a high prey drive might dig because they smell or hear underground creatures like moles or insects. If your dog is focused on a particular spot, sniffing and pawing at the ground, they might be trying to uncover a hidden critter.

Anxiety Digging

Sometimes, dogs dig as a coping mechanism for anxiety. If your pup is digging excessively, especially indoors, it may be a sign of stress or separation anxiety. Providing comfort, interactive toys, and calming techniques can help ease their anxiety.

How to Manage and Redirect Digging

While digging is natural, excessive or destructive digging can be frustrating for pet parents (we totally understand). Here are some tips to help manage it:

• Provide Adequate Exercise: Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation can help curb boredom-induced digging.
• Designate a Digging Zone: If your dog loves to dig, consider setting up a sandbox or specific area where they can dig freely.
• Use Interactive Toys: Keeping your dog engaged with puzzle toys, treat dispensers, or chew toys can redirect their energy.
• Monitor Stress Levels: If digging seems stress-related, identify and address the triggers causing anxiety.
• Limit Unsupervised Outdoor Time: Keeping an eye on your dog outside can prevent them from turning your garden into a construction site.

Protect your pet starting at $10 a month

Would you rather pay $2000 or $200 for your pet’s lifesaving surgery? Pet insurance can help prevent tough decisions by helping you pay for covered veterinary procedures.

With up to 90% reimbursement, both your furry pal and your wallet will thank you.

View Money’s Best Pet Insurance list to compare plans.

Compare plans

Family photo of the day: Dexter!

We want to feature your pup!

We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we'll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.

Share our newsletter with your friends!

We’ll donate on your behalf!

🐶 Refer 10 people: we will donate a box of treats to an animal rescue 🐶

🐕️ Refer 50 people: we will donate a bag of dog food to an animal rescue 🐕️

🛏️ Refer 100 people: we will donate a dog bed to an animal rescue 🛏️

You currently have 0 referrals, only 2 away from receiving Dog Safety Guide.

Sources:

Dog of the day: IG tailswithkelsea

Meme of the day: IG dogmemejunkie