Skip to main content
Free shipping on NZ urban orders $100+

How to stop your dog digging

How to stop your dog digging

Dogs often engage in burrowing and digging. Enter the world of burrow toys – the solution that entertains and satisfies your dog's urge to burrow and dig.

Why do dogs dig?

Dogs dig for various reasons, and this behaviour is often rooted in their natural instincts from their wild ancestors who used to dig to create shelter and hide food. Dogs may also dig to get attention from their owners. If they observe that digging results in a reaction, positive or negative, they may continue the behaviour. It's also a physical activity that helps dogs expend excess energy. Puppies and high-energy breeds, in particular, may dig as a way to release pent-up energy. However they may dig also dig as a response to anxiety, stress, or boredom.

Understanding the context and triggers for your dog's digging behaviour can help address any concerns or redirect the behaviour in a positive way. Providing alternatives, such as burrow toys, can help fulfil their natural instincts while preventing unwanted digging.

How burrow toys satisfy the urge to dig

Here's why these toys are a must have for every pup:

Satisfies natural instincts - Dogs have an inherent drive to burrow and dig, behaviours deeply ingrained from their wolf ancestors who would create dens for safety and warmth, and hunt for food. The act of searching for and extracting hidden toys within the burrow mimics the comfort of burrowing and the thrill of a hunt in a controlled and enjoyable manner. This not only satisfies their primal instincts but also gives them a sense of accomplishment. Burrow toys become a bridge connecting our domesticated dogs to their wild instincts.

Check out the Zippy Paws caravan burrow...

Interactive entertainment - Designed with multiple components, burrow toys offer an interactive experience. Dogs can dig, search, and retrieve small plush toys hidden within the larger toy, providing mental stimulation and entertainment. You can join in the fun by hiding treats or favourite toys within the burrow toy, encouraging your pup to search and retrieve them. This interactive playtime strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. It also allows for positive reinforcement training, as you can reward your dog when they successfully uncover the small toys inside.

Check out the Fringe Studio holiday suitcase burrow...

Reduces unwanted digging - By redirecting their instinct to burrow toward a specific toy, you can help prevent unwanted digging in your yard. It's a win-win solution for both dogs and their owners. Dogs are inherently inclined to dig due to their ancestral instincts, often seeking comfort, security, or an outlet for their energy. Burrow toys serve as a constructive and engaging outlet for these natural behaviours. 

Check out the Outward Hound surfing kombi van burrow...

Promotes cognitive engagement - The challenge of extracting the hidden toys encourages problem-solving. It's an excellent way to provide mental exercise, especially for breeds known for their intelligence. As your dog uses their sense of smell and problem-solving skills to find the hidden squeakers or crinkly surprises, their cognitive abilities are put to the test. This mental exercise helps keep their minds sharp and active, preventing boredom and promoting overall mental well-being.

Check out the Zippy Paws camping tent burrow...

Burrow toys offer a multitude of benefits for our canines. These toys cater to a dog's natural instincts while providing hours of entertainment and joy. At Sweet As Pup, we offer a wide selection of burrow toys that are sure to captivate your dog's heart and provide endless fun.

Your Cart

Your cart is currently empty.
Click here to continue shopping.
Thanks for contacting us! We'll get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for subscribing Thanks! We will notify you when it becomes available! The max number of items have already been added There is only one item left to add to the cart There are only [num_items] items left to add to the cart