You’re enjoying a quiet afternoon in your backyard when suddenly, you notice your neighbor’s dog squeezing through a freshly dug hole under your shared fence. The next thing you know, your flower bed is tore up, your own pets are cowering in fear, and poo is everywhere.
OK, it might not be so dramatic. But when a neighbor’s dog starts digging under your fence, problems can definitely arise.
One of the most obvious issues is property damage. A dog that has breached the fence may cause harm to your lawn, flowerbeds, or garden, leaving behind unsightly holes and uprooted plants. But a neighbor’s dog can pose safety risks to your own pets or family members as well, particularly if the dog is aggressive or has a history of harming animals or people.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why dogs dig under fences, discuss prevention methods, and offer guidance on how to approach your neighbor and suggest training techniques to keep Fido in his own yard.
Why do dogs dig under fences?
Boredom
One of the most common reasons dogs dig is boredom and a lack of mental stimulation. When a dog is left alone in the yard for extended periods without adequate toys or activities to keep them engaged, they might resort to digging as a way to entertain themselves. This is particularly true for high-energy breeds or dogs with a strong prey drive, which might be more inclined to seek out stimulation through digging.
Anxiety
Anxiety or fear can also trigger digging behavior in dogs. If a dog feels threatened or experiences separation anxiety when left alone, they might attempt to escape the yard by digging under the fence. This can be a sign of a more serious underlying issue that requires attention.
Instincts
Some dogs, particularly those with strong hunting instincts, might dig under fences in pursuit of prey. If your neighbor’s yard or the surrounding area is home to small animals like rabbits or rodents, a dog with a high prey drive might be motivated to dig in an attempt to catch them, especially if the dog notices critters in your yard.
Some breeds, such as terriers and hounds, were originally bred for tasks that involved digging, such as hunting small animals or excavating dens. These breeds may have a stronger instinctual drive to dig and may require extra attention and training to redirect their behavior.
Identifying the specific reasons behind a dog’s digging behavior can help you and your neighbor determine the best course of action. Signs that a dog is likely to dig under a fence include excessive energy or restlessness, a lack of interest in toys or other forms of play, and a history of escape attempts.
How to stop a dog from digging under a fence
Of course, the best way to stop a dog from digging is to address the underlying behavioral issues. But since it’s not your dog, your options might be more limited.
Physical barriers
One of the most effective ways to prevent a dog from digging under a fence is to install physical barriers. Chicken wire or hardware cloth can be buried along the base of the fence, extending at least a foot below ground and a foot outward from the fence line. This creates an underground obstacle that discourages digging and makes it more difficult for a dog to tunnel through.
When installing physical barriers, ensure proper depth and coverage. The barrier should be buried deep enough to deter even the most determined diggers, typically at least a foot below ground. You should cover a wide enough area, extending the barrier a foot or more outward from the fence line to prevent the dog from simply digging around it.
Deterrents
The use of deterrents, such as bitter sprays or motion-activated sprinklers, could also work. Dog-safe sprays can be applied directly to the base of the fence or the area where the dog is likely to dig, making the experience unpleasant and discouraging them from returning to the spot. However, deterrents might not work for all dogs and may require frequent reapplication.
If you use a motion-activated sprinkler, place it close enough to the fence so it triggers and startles the dog before it enters your yard. This idea could backfire if the dog enjoys the water and it becomes a game — but as long as it discourages the dog from digging, this approach can still work.
Modified fence designs
In some cases, modifying the fence design or materials can help prevent digging. A fence with a bottom rail or a concrete footer can create a more secure barrier that’s difficult for dogs to dig under. Using fencing materials that extend below ground, such as chain-link or vinyl fencing with buried panels, can also stop Fido in his tracks.
When implementing any prevention measures, communicate with your neighbor beforehand. Discuss your concerns and propose solutions openly and honestly to maintain a positive relationship, emphasizing the benefits for both the dog’s safety and the overall neighborhood.
Training the dog to prevent fence digging
While prevention methods can be highly effective, they work best when combined with training and behavioral modification. As a neighbor, you can suggest techniques and tools to help your neighbor work with their dog to reduce or eliminate digging.
Positive reinforcement
Encourage your neighbor to reward their dog with treats, praise, or toys when they engage in appropriate behaviors, such as playing with its own toys or staying away from the fence line. By consistently reinforcing good behavior, the dog will learn that these activities are more rewarding than digging.
Redirect the dog’s attention
Redirection is another powerful tool in addressing digging behavior. Suggest that your neighbor create a designated digging area in their yard, such as a sandbox or a section of the lawn where digging is allowed. By providing a safe and appropriate outlet for the dog’s digging instincts, they can reduce the likelihood of the dog digging under the fence.
This approach must be combined with other behavioral training techniques to ensure the dog understands the difference. Analogous to potty training, the dog must learn that there are consequences to digging in inappropriate areas, and rewards for digging in desired areas.
Helping the dog expend energy
Increasing physical exercise and mental stimulation can also help curb digging behavior. Encourage your neighbor to take their dog on more walks, runs, or playdates with other dogs to help burn off excess energy. Engaging the dog in interactive play, such as fetch or tug-of-war, can provide mental stimulation and help reduce boredom-induced digging.
In some cases, your neighbor can address the root cause of the digging by providing a more engaging and enriching environment for their dog. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or scent games can keep the dog mentally stimulated and less likely to resort to digging.
If the digging behavior persists, a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can find additional training techniques specific to your neighbor’s dog. Training a dog takes time, effort, and patience, so don’t expect immediate results.
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