Boston Terriers are notorious diggers, and if you're a proud owner, you're probably familiar with the challenges of preventing this behavior. They dig due to boredom, anxiety, or a natural instinct to burrow.
Digging can be a problem, especially if you have a yard with gardens or plants. According to the article, Boston Terriers can dig up to 10 square feet of soil in a single day.
To prevent digging, it's essential to provide your Boston Terrier with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. A bored or under-exercised Boston Terrier is more likely to dig.
Boston Terriers need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, which can include walks, runs, or playtime in the yard.
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Why Boston Terriers Dig
Boston Terriers dig for a variety of reasons, including their genetic predisposition as a Terrier and Bull Dog mix.
Some Boston Terriers dig due to boredom, which can be alleviated with additional play, training, and exercise sessions.
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Providing a regular and enriching daily routine can go a long way in preventing digging behavior, especially in young and active dogs.
Dogs that dig due to anxiety can find comfort in burrowing under blankets, which can help them feel safe and secure.
Leaving a Boston Terrier alone for long periods can lead to anxiety and frustration, resulting in burrowing behavior.
If your Boston Terrier is digging excessively, it's essential to determine the underlying reason and address it accordingly, whether it's boredom, anxiety, or a desire to escape.
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Stopping Inappropriate Behavior
If you're unable to supervise your Boston Terrier, housing them indoors is the most practical solution until they learn to stay outdoors without digging.
Digging is a deeply held instinct in dogs, and you may not be able to stop it completely, but providing more appropriate outlets can help.
To discourage digging, confine your dog to an area such as a pen or run with an inescapable design, covered with gravel, patio tiles, or an asphalt or concrete floor.
Providing sufficient exercise and stimulation before confining the dog is crucial to prevent boredom and frustration.
An area within the pen or run where digging is allowed can be a good alternative to prevent unwanted digging in other areas.
Addressing issues that lead your dog to dig in the first place is essential to stopping inappropriate behavior.
Leaving your dog alone for long periods can cause anxiety, leading to burrowing under blankets or digging in the yard.
Providing adequate play toys and treats in the run can keep your dog occupied and reduce the likelihood of digging.
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Providing Alternative Activities
If your Boston has nothing to do when she's in your backyard, she'll dig. Young Bostons are more prone to this, but Bostons love to dig at any age.
Providing a shady spot for your dog can be a great alternative to digging, as they may appreciate a place to cool off without seeking out cool soil. You can also try providing a variety of toys and chews to keep your Boston occupied and engaged.
If you've tried these ideas and your Boston is still digging, it's likely due to boredom. Providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation through playtime and training can help redirect their energy and satisfy their natural instincts.
Provide Shady Areas
Providing a shady spot for your dog can be a simple yet effective way to prevent digging. This can allow them to cool off without seeking out cool soil, which is a common reason for digging in the first place.
You may not ever stop your dog's desire to dig, but providing outlets and controlling their environment can help prevent destruction of your yard.
Boredom
Boredom is a common issue for Boston owners, and it's not just a problem for young dogs. Young Bostons are more prone to digging when they're bored, but it's a habit that can persist into adulthood.
If your Boston has nothing to do in the backyard, she'll dig, and many owners find their yard full of holes as a result. This is a clear indication that your dog needs more stimulation and activity.
Providing alternative activities is key to preventing boredom, and it's essential to keep your Boston's mind and body engaged. By doing so, you can prevent digging and other destructive behaviors that arise from boredom.
Understanding Burrowing Behavior
Burrowing is a natural behavior for some dogs, including Boston Terriers. It's rooted in their genes, originating from a Terrier and Bulldog mix.
Digging is a deeply held instinct in dogs, making it challenging to stop completely. You can, however, redirect their digging to more suitable areas.
Leaving a dog alone for long periods can lead to anxiety, causing them to burrow as a way to cope. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, including digging and burrowing.
Providing a safe and secure space for your dog can help alleviate anxiety. This can be as simple as a cozy crate or a designated digging area.
Housing your dog indoors when you're unavailable can be a practical solution to prevent digging. This can be especially helpful until your dog learns to stay outdoors without digging.
You can also confine your dog to a secure area, such as a pen or run, to prevent digging. This area should be escape-proof and equipped with adequate exercise and stimulation.
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Final Thoughts
Boston terriers are great family dogs, and with the right approach, you can minimize their digging tendencies.
Burrowing is an innate behavior for Boston terriers, and it's hard to stop them from digging entirely.
You can redirect your Boston's digging to an acceptable spot made just for her, but it's essential to address boredom and anxiety, which can make this behavior worse.
Reducing your pooch's anxiety with exercise, socialization, and playtime can help minimize digging outside, but it's still cute when they burrow under the covers and in the laundry basket.
Sources
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dogs-and-destructive-digging
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/why-your-dog-is-digging-5203017
- https://www.bostonterriersociety.com/why-do-boston-terriers-burrow/
- https://canineminded.com/get-dog-stop-digging-holes/
- https://be.chewy.com/10-dogs-breeds-that-love-to-dig/
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