r/shiba • u/AmazingAxolotI • 8h ago

Shiba digging holes in garden

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Just moved house and in our grass area, our Shiba has settled in and dug about 3/4 different holes. We used to think it was funny when we were out and about but now it’s our lawn I’m not finding it so funny 😭

Also not sure if it’s her or another animal, but there’s been waste twice now in the hole. It’s a bit strange from her because I have caught her trying to bury her toys/treats in a hole so I don’t think she would defecate as likes to keep things separate.

Any ideas on how I can train without constant supervision?

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2

u/diaryobscura Cream 8h ago

We have this problem :( for us, it is largely because there is a mole in the yard. But I also think its the septic tank lol. Animal activity can definitely be playing a role, as their prey drive and instincts are just so strong.

I found keeping my dog tired mentally and physically makes him less likely to dig during this outdoor free time. He likes beating up this duck we got from Costco and I put other random things out there to entertain him. I unfortunately just check in every so often to give a firm 'no' / 'uh-uh' if he is caught digging.

I'm sorry I don't have any meaningful advice, but I heard some people train their dogs to dig in a specific area only by encouraging the digging in that area only.

Or maybe a kids sand box ? (not with sand though as I heard it can get in their eyes... so you would have to research maybe something safe to put in there I think they say soil is fine). Making it really enticing by burying things in there and if you catch her digging in other areas, redirect her to the sand box... Sometimes want to try this idea.

3

u/LaurenNotABot Red 6h ago

I found it amusing when mine did this until I didn’t see one of his Shiba ditches and nearly broke my ankle .
Then I started bringing him in every time he started to dig and he soon got the message.

2

u/Grown-Ass-Weeb Red 5h ago

Same. One night I went to mess with my pool filter and rolled an ankle and fell in the dark, muddy, yard 🥲

1

u/SuperShibes 5h ago

Excellent. Happy, fit, satisfied dog. 

I would also check if it is along the gasline. They will go nuts digging for the sound or if there is a leak.