Dogs Digging In My Flower Garden

I have two dogs and they keep digging in my flower garden, does anyone know how I can stop them?

Hardiness Zone: 10a

Becky from West Palm Beach, FL

Answers:

Dogs Digging In My Flower Garden

Moth balls or crystals sprinkled around the perimeter of the beds might help. Most animals (including snakes and bugs) can't stand the smell. I put the balls around the outside of my house to keep away snakes, mice, ants, etc. (We live in the boonies!) They do not seem to affect the grass or shrubs, but I don't how they would affect flowers if placed too close to them. Never thought about it until just now, but we have three dogs, and they have not dug any holes where the moth balls are. (05/10/2006)

By Reba Gayle Shurden

Dogs Digging In My Flower Garden

There are many reasons why dogs dig, the main being boredom. There is very little you can do to train a dog not to dig once he has the habit. You would be better off redesigning your garden around your dog.

Here is a training tip:

For dedicated diggers, provide an "acceptable digging area". Choose an area of the yard where it's okay for your dog to dig, and cover that area with loose soil or sand. If you catch your dog digging in an unacceptable area, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise and say, "no dig". Then immediately take the dog to his designated digging area. When he digs in the approved spot, reward him with praise. Make the unacceptable digging spots unattractive (at least temporarily) by setting rocks or chicken wire into the dirt. Make the acceptable area attractive by burying safe items for him to discover. (05/10/2006)

By Kate Page

Dogs Digging In My Flower Garden

Whenever someone has a animal or other pest problem the old moth ball myth answer pops up. Moth balls do nothing to deter the problem. Humans are the ones who dislike the smell of moth balls. I would try a vet, look for an answer at the library, or check out answer on Google. (05/11/2006)

By Dean

Dogs Digging In My Flower Garden

My Pyrenees puppy had taken to digging in all of my outside potted plants. I decided to sprinkle crushed red peppers in the pots and she hasn't gotten into them since. Not sure if the pepper is the reason or not, but might be worth a try. (05/12/2006)

By Deb