Have you been noticing your golden retriever doing some digging in your backyard? Let’s uncover whether golden retrievers like to dig or if there’s more to this behavior.
Yes, golden retrievers may dig due to their instincts and certain factors like lack of exercise or mental stimulation, anxiety, lack of attention, curiosity, and overheating. Providing mental stimulation, enough exercise, and designated digging areas can help manage this behavior.
In this article, we’ll explain the reasons behind golden retriever’s digging behavior, what age they stop digging, and practical tips to stop them from digging.
Table of Contents
Do Golden Retrievers Dig A Lot?
Golden retrievers are known for their friendly and playful nature, and digging can be a common behavior among them.
However, the frequency of digging can vary from one dog to another.
Some golden retrievers may have a strong digging instinct and engage in this behavior more frequently, while others may show little interest in digging.
Factors such as age, individual temperament, and environmental stimuli can influence how much a golden retriever digs.
Do Golden Retrievers Like to Dig?
Yes, many golden retrievers like to dig.
It’s kind of in their nature as they were bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters.
In the wild, dogs would dig to uncover prey, create shelter, or store food.
Even though our pet golden retrievers don’t hunt the same way today, their instincts still carry traces of these behaviors.
RELATED: Do Golden Retrievers Hunt?
Moreover, they might also do it to explore smells, make a cozy spot, or have fun.
Why do Golden Retrievers Dig?
If you’re annoyed by finding holes in your yard every other day, you must identify the root cause.
Without identifying the root cause, you won’t be able to address the problem.
Let’s look at the reasons why do golden retrievers dig holes.
1. Hunting Instinct
Golden retrievers have a strong digging instinct ingrained in their DNA.
This instinct traces back to their origins as hunting and retrieving dogs.
In the wild, dogs used to dig to find food, make a cozy spot to rest, or hide their food.
Even though domesticated, this inherent instinct doesn’t seem to go away, leading golden retrievers to dig as a natural and instinctual behavior.
2. Lack of Physical Exercise
When golden retrievers don’t get enough physical exercise, they might start digging to release pent-up energy.
These dogs are naturally active and need regular walks, play, and other physical activities.
If they have a lot of unused energy, digging can become a way to cope.
So, when you see your golden digging the next time, it might be a sign they’re ready for more outdoor adventures and playtime.
3. Lack of Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, golden retrievers require mental stimulation like interactive games or training sessions to stay happy and fulfilled.
Otherwise, they may turn to digging to alleviate boredom.
Without sufficient mental challenges, they might create their own entertainment by exploring the ground.
4. Attention
Golden retrievers are social beings and thrive on human interaction.
If they feel lonely, they might start digging to grab your attention.
Digging can become a behavior to communicate their need for companionship or playtime.
If your golden retriever is digging and looking your way, it could be a call for interaction.
5. Anxiety
Changes in their environment/routine or exposure to new and unfamiliar stimuli can trigger anxious behavior, including digging.
RECOMMENDED READING: Anxiety in Golden Retrievers: Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions
If your golden retriever is digging excessively and other causes are ruled out, it’s essential to consider if there are stressors in their life.
6. Overheating
On warmer days, golden retrievers might dig to create a cool spot in the ground.
Dogs don’t sweat like humans (instead, they pant), so they may dig to expose cooler ground underneath and get relief from the heat.
RELATED: Do Golden Retrievers Pant A Lot?
If you notice digging, especially on sunny days, it’s likely their natural response to beat the heat.
7. Overfeeding
Sometimes, golden retrievers may dig if they’re overfed.
If they’re getting more food than they need, they might bury excess portions as a sort of instinctual behavior left over from their hunting days.
RELATED: When Should My Golden Retriever Puppy Switch To Adult Food?
In the wild, dogs would stash away extra food for later, which could be why your golden retriever is digging.
8. Exploration and Curiosity
You may already know that golden retrievers are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings.
Digging can be a way for them to uncover interesting scents, textures, or even hidden treasures.
If your golden is digging without an apparent cause like anxiety or boredom, they might be simply satisfying their curiosity.
9. Environmental Factors
Any changes to your golden retriever’s environment may trigger their innate behaviors to dig and explore.
If there are new scents in the air, perhaps from plants, animals, or even a recent barbecue, your pup might dig to investigate further.
The presence of small creatures in the soil, like bugs or critters, could also spark their curiosity and digging instincts.
Furthermore, any changes to their surroundings, such as changes in landscaping or the introduction of new objects, might be seen as a need to explore or mark their territory through digging.
What Age Do Golden Retrievers Stop Digging?
By getting frustrated and exhausted by this behavior, most pet parents ask, “How long do golden retrievers dig?”.
Whether your golden retriever is 4 months old or 10 years old, they all love digging.
There isn’t a specific age at which they universally stop digging.
Digging is often more common in younger dogs, especially puppies, as it aligns with their exploration and play behaviors.
This might even make you wonder if this is the worst age for golden retrievers and when it will all get easier.
Recommended Reading: When Do Golden Retriever Puppies Get Easier?
However, some adult golden retrievers may continue to dig, influenced by factors like instincts, environment, training, and individual personalities.
While many golden retrievers tend to dig less as they mature and their energy levels stabilize, it’s essential to note that individual dogs may continue digging throughout their lives.
Providing adequate physical and mental stimulation, training, and understanding the specific reasons behind their digging can help manage and minimize this behavior regardless of age.
How to Stop Golden Retriever from Digging? (With Step-By-Step Guide)
While golden retrievers are known for digging, you can stop your dog from digging by implementing the tips mentioned below.
You can also check out this quick step-by-step guide before reading the tips below to stop them from digging.
1. Keep Them Company Outside
Spending quality time outdoors with your canine companion can help curb their digging behavior.
When your golden is in the yard, join them for a game of fetch, a walk, or some playtime.
The presence of their favorite person can be a powerful distraction, reducing the likelihood of digging out of boredom or a desire for attention.
2. Supervise Outside
When you supervise your dog’s outdoor activities, you can redirect their attention away from digging and provide alternative, engaging activities.
If you notice them starting to dig, intervene gently by offering a toy or initiating play.
Consistent supervision allows you to promptly catch and address digging behavior while teaching them that there are better things to do in the yard than digging.
3. Give Them Their Own Digging Area
Assigning a specific digging zone in your yard can provide an outlet for your golden retriever’s natural digging instincts.
Create a designated area filled with loose soil or sand where digging is allowed and encouraged.
When your dog feels the urge to dig, guide them to this special zone.
Consistency is key – over time, they’ll learn that this is the approved digging spot, helping to preserve the rest of your garden.
4. Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog for good behavior, which can be a powerful way to discourage digging.
When your dog refrains from digging or engages in alternative behaviors like sitting or staying, quickly reward them with treats, praise, or affection.
The more you reinforce positive behaviors, the more your golden retriever will understand what you expect and, in turn, adjust their actions accordingly.
5. Restrict Their Access
If you can’t watch your golden retriever outside or have yet to train them not to dig, use barriers or fencing to keep them away from areas where they like to dig.
Recommended Reading: Do Golden Retrievers Jump Fences?
This helps prevent the digging habit in those spots, especially when you’re not around to supervise or provide training.
6. Provide Interactive Toys and Games
Provide toys that dispense treats or toys designed to keep them mentally stimulated.
Puzzle feeders, chew toys, or balls that dispense treats can keep them entertained and focused on positive activities.
This way, you can provide mental stimulation and satisfy their need for play, reducing the likelihood of digging out of boredom or excess energy.
7. Appropriate Exercise Routine
These energetic dogs need regular walks, playtime, and other physical activities to stay content.
Establish a consistent exercise routine that suits their age and energy level.
A well-exercised dog is less likely to dig to release pent-up energy or alleviate boredom.
8. Environmental Modifications
Covering exposed soil with rocks or mulch makes digging less appealing, as it removes the soft surface dogs often prefer.
Planting dense vegetation or using landscaping to create barriers can also deter digging.
Additionally, providing shaded areas and comfortable resting spots can address overheating-related digging.
9. Professional Training Classes
Certified trainers can provide expert guidance on modifying your dog’s behavior through positive reinforcement techniques.
These classes offer structured training sessions, helping your dog learn commands and appropriate behaviors.
Trainers can specifically address digging issues, providing you with effective strategies to manage and redirect your golden retriever’s behavior.
10. Consult with a Vet
If your golden retriever’s digging persists or seems unusual, it’s a good idea to consult a vet.
Sometimes, underlying health issues or discomfort can lead to changes in behavior.
Your vet can rule out any medical concerns and provide advice on managing digging behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do poodles dig?
Yes, poodles can dig, but certain factors, such as their age, temperament, and environment, may influence this behavior. Offering outlets and training can manage digging behavior. If digging is excessive, consult your vet or trainer for guidance.
2. Are golden retrievers destructive?
Golden retrievers can exhibit destructive behavior if not properly trained or stimulated. Factors like boredom, lack of exercise, or anxiety may contribute. Establishing a consistent routine, providing mental and physical stimulation, and offering appropriate outlets for energy can help prevent destructive tendencies.
3. How to stop golden retriever from shedding?
Golden retrievers naturally shed, influenced by factors like season and genetics. While shedding can’t be entirely stopped, regular grooming, including brushing, helps manage loose hair. A balanced diet can also reduce shedding by improving overall coat health. If shedding seems excessive, you should consult your vet.
Recommended Reading: Do Golden Retriever Puppies Shed?
Conclusion
Although digging is rooted in the golden retriever’s instinct, understanding and addressing the root cause can help you manage this behavior effectively.
Whether it’s providing mental and physical stimulation, enrolling in training classes, or creating designated digging zones, addressing the root causes will help you curb this digging behavior.
Moreover, if your golden retriever puppy is showing aggressive behavior, we recommend checking out these articles next:
Why Is My Golden Retriever Puppy Being Aggressive?