Dogs and digging go together like peanut butter and jelly. Some breeds just can’t resist the urge to dig, be it to bury a bone or to make a comfy spot to lie down.
Here, we’ll explore dog breeds that have a natural inclination for digging, each with their unique flair and personality.
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their long ears and droopy expression. They love to dig, often creating their own fun in the backyard.
These hounds can be stubborn, but their loyalty and friendly nature make them great companions. If you have a Basset, be prepared for some garden holes!
Keep them entertained with toys to minimize digging.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a spirited little digger! With their bushy eyebrows and beard, these dogs have a distinctive look.
They love to dig in search of small animals or just for fun.
Keeping them active with walks or games can help manage their digging instincts. Interactive toys can also distract from their digging urges.
3. Norwegian Elkhound
Energetic and intelligent, Norwegian Elkhounds have a thick coat that makes them well-suited for cold climates. Instinctively, they dig, often driven by boredom.
Loyal and protective, these dogs are fantastic family pets, but they require ample exercise and mental stimulation. Redirecting their digging behavior through training and play helps channel their energy into positive activities.
With the right outlets, Elkhounds can thrive and remain well-behaved.
4. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are determined diggers. With their strong personalities, they’re always up for a challenge.
These compact dogs love to dig in pursuit of small game or just for fun. They’re loyal and friendly, perfect for active families.
Providing digging spots can manage their natural instincts.
5. Beagle
Beagles are curious and playful, with noses that lead them to dig. Their strong scent instincts often drive them to uncover hidden treasures.
These sociable dogs are happy and loving companions, but their digging can become a challenge.
Regular exercise and engaging activities can help keep their digging under control.
6. Dachshund
With their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are natural diggers, a trait that comes from their hunting origins. These bold and lively little dogs are always eager to explore and full of energy.
They thrive on attention and enjoy playtime, making them a fun companion.
To help channel their digging instinct, providing a designated digging area can be a positive outlet for their energy.
7. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are powerful and majestic, with a love for digging. Often, they dig to stay cool or just for the fun of it.
These dogs are friendly and loyal, making great companions for active families. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Engaging them in activities can reduce unwanted digging.
8. Wirehaired Fox Terrier
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is lively and curious, with a penchant for digging. Their wiry coat gives them a unique, rugged look.
These dogs love adventure and require plenty of physical and mental activity.
Providing them with a designated digging area or engaging toys can satisfy their digging instincts.
9. West Highland White Terrier
Spirited diggers by nature, West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are always eager to explore. Their cheerful personalities make them affectionate companions who love human company.
With their white coats, they’re easy to spot, especially when digging in the garden. Curiosity drives their digging, but providing them with a designated digging area can help avoid chaos in the garden.
By giving them a place to dig, you can keep your garden intact while satisfying their adventurous spirit.
10. Husky
Huskies are known for their striking appearance and love for digging. Often, they dig to cool off or entertain themselves.
These dogs are energetic and social, enjoying family life and outdoor activities.
Regular exercise and engaging tasks can help control their digging habits.
11. Border Collie
Border Collies are intelligent and energetic, famously known for their herding skills. Digging can be a way for them to burn off energy.
Their keen minds need constant stimulation and exercise to stay happy.
Engaging them in herding games or agility courses can redirect their energy from digging.
12. Jack Russell Terrier
Feisty and full of energy, Jack Russell Terriers have a natural instinct to dig, driven by their hunting background. Always on the move, these small dogs are bold and adventurous, loving every opportunity to play and explore.
Their curiosity and drive make them constant explorers. Redirecting their digging tendencies into interactive games and training can help channel their boundless energy in positive ways.
With the right activities, they can be kept engaged and well-behaved.
13. Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are small but mighty diggers. Their energetic nature and curiosity lead them to dig frequently.
These dogs are loyal and affectionate, making great companions. They thrive in active environments.
Offering them toys and a digging spot can help manage their digging tendencies.
14. Cairn Terrier
Playful and spirited, Cairn Terriers are often found digging as they chase after their next adventure. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and a love for exploration.
Friendly and devoted, they enjoy being part of family life and outdoor activities. Providing a sandbox for them to dig in can satisfy their natural instincts while protecting your garden from damage.
With the right outlet, these little dogs can happily indulge in their digging habit without causing chaos.
15. Parson Russell Terrier
Parson Russell Terriers are agile and energetic, known for their digging habits. Their athletic build enables them to dig with enthusiasm.
These dogs are lively and intelligent, requiring regular exercise to stay happy.
Engaging them in play or training can help focus their energy away from unnecessary digging.
16. Boxer
Boxers are playful and energetic, often digging as a form of play. Their muscular build and lively nature make them engaging pets.
They’re affectionate and great with families, but their digging can become a challenge without guidance.
Regular exercise and training can redirect their playful digging into positive behavior.
17. Labrador Retriever
Friendly and enthusiastic diggers, Labrador Retrievers are always ready for exploration, which often leads to digging in exciting environments.
Keeping them engaged through regular exercise and interactive activities can help reduce unnecessary digging.
By providing enough stimulation, you can channel their energy into more positive behaviors.