Digging 6 m/o Border Collie - 2009-01-09

Question

: I have a 6 month old female border collie that won’t stop digging. I have tried everything from water balloons, to poo in the hole, chilli powder and even dog off but nothing will stop her. She has two other border collies to play with as well, the male is 4 and the female is 2 which are the parents. Can you please give me some ideas on how to make her stop? Thank you

Answer

Digging is a natural behaviour, but may also be a sign of stress (displacement activity). Would recommend that you allocate an area of the garden for her to dig, and use some river sand (easy to clean and hygienic) and start with hiding some treats in this new area. This area needs to be turned in to a positive. One of those children’s plastic shell baths full of sand are also a good alternative. The other areas (after you have devised the ‘go’ area) spray with apple bitter or citronella oil (solution mixed with water). Those smells will stop her from going back. If persists, see a good behavioural trainer. Also see our article on digging for more ideas!