When you become a fur parent, there are a lot of things you should learn including how to stop cocker spaniels digging. They might be creating a topsy-turvy mess in your garden, leaving holes and big piles of dirt on your lawn. While it’s a natural instinct for your cocker, there are techniques to make them behave in the way you prefer.
It could be frustrating when your cocker spaniel digs, but this guide will hopefully help you understand and resolve this issue better.
Why does my dog dig?
Before you can stop cocker spaniels digging, you first need to know the answer to “Why does my dog dig?”. In general, digging is part of a dog’s instinct. However, they could be varying motives as to why they dig.
Separation
Your cocker spaniel can dig to cope with being left alone at home. Since cockers love to be in the presence of their family, leaving them to their devices can trigger anxiety. Digging can become their outlet to ease their anxious feeling.
Aside from understanding your dog’s need for companionship, you can talk to the vet about separation anxiety and how you can resolve this issue.
Energy expenditure
Digging can be a way for your cocker spaniel to rid of their excess energy that would otherwise manifest if they are kept indoors. They dig as a sport to burn off their energetic streak. Playing hide and seek with their old toys, shoes, and other items is a favorite pastime for cocker spaniels.
Hunting instinct
Cocker spaniels are originally bred as hunting dogs in England. Digging is a skill that comes with their nature. Often, they would burrow under the fence and in the garden. Whether a hobby or a habit, digging for dogs can also be a way to get your attention.
How to stop cocker spaniels digging?
Once you identify the reason for their digging, you can refer to these tips that would hopefully stop them from making it a habit.
Play with your cocker spaniel
Your pooch absolutely loves to play and would be ecstatic if you spend time with them. There are many fun activities for cocker spaniels to pick from, such as fetch, hide and seek, agility tricks, and races that will help them spend excess energy while also having fun with you.
You can arrange the same playtime daily to get them accustomed to it. When they know that they have something to do at that time of day, they will be less likely to dig in your garden.
Go on walks
Walking or running can be a good exercise for Cocker Spaniels. To stop cocker spaniels from digging, consider planning fun trips outdoors. You can take them for walks at the park or go hiking if you are feeling more adventurous.
Your cocker will adore these activities, giving them the impression of going on a hunt with their family. You can go the extra mile and bring your pooch to the river or beach for a swim. Not only will swimming expend their energy but also keep them fit as well.
Introduce a distraction
Digging is a form of distraction for dogs, especially if they are feeling anxious or lonely. Although it can be frustrating, it’s actually not too difficult to keep them away from it. Cocker spaniels love new and interesting things and would be taken from their digging if they find another thing worth their attention.
For example, introduce a new sound that they can associate as a signal to stop digging. When you catch him on the act, rattle a can with small stones to take his attention away. Then, lead him to a designated ‘digging area’ or plan another activity. He will catch on this conditioning technique and stop digging as they please.
Make a sand pit
As a fur parent, you must understand that maybe your cocker spaniel just loves to dig and there’s nothing wrong with them. However, you can stop them from being destructive in your garden by creating an area where he is allowed to plow through dirt.
You can buy them a child’s sand pit, which will encourage them to dig while also ensuring safety. You can bury their toys in it and get them digging as a form of exercise and play.
Wrap up
When you want to stop cocker spaniels digging, it’s important to remember that they catch on faster if you provide praise and reward. Cockers don’t take well to punishment or being shouted at when they do wrong.
When you train them to stop digging, you need to be patient until they learn what you want them to learn. Pour them all the love and be supportive much like you would with children. When you give them the care and understanding they need, the love they give back to you is more than rewarding.
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