Top 10 Digging Dog Breeds: Managing Their Natural Instincts

Many dogs love to dig, but some breeds seem to have a natural talent for it. If you have a dog that is always digging in the yard or garden, it may be because of instincts that were bred into your dog long ago.

Understanding why some dogs dig more than others can help you work with your pet’s behavior. By knowing which breeds are most likely to dig, you can be better prepared to handle and manage this digging habit.

1. Jack Russell Terrier

• If you have a Jack Russell Terrier, you probably know they love to dig. This breed was originally created for hunting, and their digging instinct helped them chase small animals underground. Their strong drive to dig is still seen in many Jack Russells today.
• Jack Russells are active and alert. They need both mental and physical activity every day. Without enough exercise or things to do, they may start digging out of boredom or just for fun.
• Digging is part of what makes your Jack Russell unique. Their compact and agile bodies are perfect for getting into tight spots and moving dirt quickly, which relates to their history as working dogs.
• If you want to manage this behavior, try giving your Jack Russell special places or toys for digging. Training and play help channel their energy in a positive way. Remember, digging comes naturally to them, so patience and consistency are important.

2. Dachshund

• If you have a Dachshund, you may notice that digging comes naturally. This breed was originally developed in Germany to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Their long bodies and short legs were made to help them move through tunnels and dig efficiently.
• Your Dachshund’s urge to dig is connected to its hunting background. When you see your dog scratching at the ground, it is showing instincts passed down through generations. Digging can also make your Dachshund feel safe and entertained.
• Many Dachshunds enjoy digging not just outside but also indoors, like pawing at blankets or bedding. This behavior can create a sense of comfort and security. If your Dachshund digs in your bed, it is following its natural instincts more than being naughty.

3. Beagle

• If you have a Beagle, you may notice they love to dig. This behavior is part of their nature. Beagles were bred to hunt small animals, so digging comes naturally to them.
• Your Beagle might dig for fun or to chase interesting scents. Sometimes, they dig to try and escape, especially if they smell something exciting on the other side of a fence. It is also common for them to dig when they are bored or want to make a cool spot to rest.
• Beagles are curious and energetic, which can lead to lots of holes in your yard. Many owners say their Beagles will sometimes dig under fences or in gardens. Beagle digging is common enough to be discussed among dog lovers and breed experts.
• If you want to prevent digging, you may need to provide extra exercise and stimulation. Puzzle toys, more walks, and playtime can help redirect their natural instincts. Consistent boundaries and supervision when they are outside are also important.

4. Fox Terrier

• If you have a Fox Terrier, you probably know how much they love to dig. This breed was originally used for hunting small animals and flushing them out of their hiding spots. Because of this, digging is part of their natural instincts.
• Fox Terriers are full of energy and need activities that match their working background. They are always curious and ready to explore, which can often lead them to digging in your yard or garden. Their strong paws are perfect for this behavior.
• Many Fox Terriers are happiest when they have a job to do. If you give them a safe spot to dig or enough exercise, you may be able to control this habit. Without enough activity, they may dig simply for fun or out of boredom.
• These dogs are part of the larger Terrier group, which are well known for their serious digging skills.

5. Bedlington Terrier

• If you have a Bedlington Terrier, you might notice how much they like to dig. This breed was first developed in England for hunting small animals underground.
• Bedlington Terriers have a unique look, but their instincts are much like other terriers. Digging comes naturally to them because they were bred to chase prey into burrows and tunnels.
• You can see this digging drive today, even in Bedlington Terriers that have never gone hunting. Their strong prey instinct and love for burrowing remain a big part of their personality.
• If your Bedlington Terrier is digging in your yard or even on the couch cushions, this is normal behavior for the breed. These dogs not only dig for fun but also enjoy making cozy spaces for themselves. Burrowing and digging are part of their hunting origins.
• You can help your Bedlington Terrier by offering safe places where they can dig, like a sandbox or a special digging area. This uses their natural instincts in a positive way and keeps them happy.

6. Siberian Husky

• If you have a Siberian Husky, you probably know they love to dig. This breed has a strong digging instinct that goes back to their roots as working sled dogs.
• Huskies would dig in the snow to create shelter and keep warm in harsh climates. This behavior is passed down through generations, so you may notice your Husky trying to dig in your yard or even your couch.
• Digging can also be a sign that your Husky is bored or wants to explore. These dogs are smart and active, so regular exercise and mental activities can help channel their energy.
• Siberian Huskies are known for being enthusiastic diggers compared to many other breeds. This trait is common, especially in arctic breeds like Huskies, and is considered normal for them.
• If you want to prevent unwanted holes, consider giving your Husky a specific spot where they are allowed to dig. Supervision and training will go a long way in keeping your yard looking nice.

7. Border Collie

• Border Collies are best known for their intelligence and energy. You often see them excelling in tasks like herding, agility, and obedience. They were originally bred to herd sheep, which means they like to have a job to do.
• Digging is not a main trait for Border Collies, but they still may dig if they get bored or need to burn off extra energy. This is common in many active breeds. If you do not keep your Border Collie busy, you might notice them digging holes in the yard.
• You can help prevent problem digging by giving your Border Collie daily exercise and mental challenges. Training, games, and regular activity are important for this breed. With the right balance, you can keep their natural energy focused on more positive activities than digging.
• If you want to learn more about their background and behavior, Border Collies are recognized for their intelligence and work ethic. Their instincts make them eager to please and quick to learn. This can help you redirect digging into more useful habits.

8. American Staffordshire Terrier

• The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed known for its strength and energy. If you have one at home, you might notice a strong urge to dig. This behavior comes from their instincts and can be seen in many dogs of this breed.
• These terriers are very intelligent and active. They need things to do, so digging can become one of their favorite activities. They may dig because they are bored or just want to have fun.
• You might find your American Staffordshire Terrier digging in your yard or garden. This is normal for them and is part of their natural behavior.
• If digging becomes a problem, you can help by giving your dog more exercise and toys. Allowing them time to play and explore can also lower their need to dig. Digging is not a sign of bad behavior, but a part of who they are.

9. Australian Terrier

• If you have an Australian Terrier, you probably know that digging comes naturally to this small but sturdy breed. Australian Terriers were bred to hunt and chase rodents, which often meant digging to reach their prey.
• This strong prey drive still shows up today. You may notice your Australian Terrier loves to dig in the yard or garden. Digging is a natural activity for them and helps them stay busy.
• Their double coat may not get dirty easily, but you should still watch where they dig. These terriers are energetic and need to channel their instincts in a safe way. Giving them a special digging spot can help keep your garden safe.
• Australian Terriers also benefit from regular exercise and mental games. Keeping them occupied can reduce unwanted digging. If you are patient and provide the right outlets, you can live happily with this determined little digger.

10. Wirehaired Dachshund

• If you have a Wirehaired Dachshund, expect digging to come naturally. These dogs were bred long ago to hunt animals like badgers and rabbits underground. Their bodies are low to the ground, and their paws are strong. This helps them dig and squeeze through tunnels with ease.
• Wirehaired Dachshunds are especially known for their determination. Once they start digging, it can be hard to distract them. Their hunting instinct makes them want to dig in dirt, sand, and even under blankets.
• Not only do they dig outside, but some also show this behavior indoors. You might see your Wirehaired Dachshund burrowing in pillows or blankets when they relax. This is normal and linked to their strong instincts.
• Keep in mind, if you have a garden, your pup may want to dig up flower beds or chase after small animals in the yard. Dachshunds are especially prone to digging because it’s part of their heritage.
• Providing extra exercise and offering special digging areas in your yard may help manage this behavior. Training with patience and consistency is important, as Dachshunds can also be stubborn.

Why Dogs Love to Dig

Dogs dig for many reasons. Their behavior is shaped by instincts passed down from wild ancestors and by their current surroundings, emotions, and needs.

Understanding the Ancestral Instinct

• Digging goes back to a dog’s wolf ancestors. Wild dogs often dug to create safe, cool places to sleep or raise pups. This habit helped protect them from harsh weather and threats.
• Many breeds, especially terriers and dachshunds, were bred to hunt underground animals. Their strong digging drive is still seen today. Even if your dog lives indoors, those instincts remain part of their nature. Dogs may also dig to hide food, just like their ancestors, who had to store extra food to survive lean times.

Environmental and Behavioral Triggers

Besides instincts, dogs also dig because of certain triggers in their environment or how they feel. Common reasons include:

• Boredom: If your dog has little to do, digging becomes entertainment.
• Seeking Comfort: Dogs might dig to find cooler earth on a hot day or make a cozy resting spot.
• Attention Seeking: Digging often gets a reaction from you, even if it’s negative.
• Anxiety or Stress: Sometimes digging acts as a way to relieve nervous energy.

If your dog is digging, look for patterns in when and where it happens. Changing the environment, offering more toys, or providing more playtime outdoors can help limit unwanted digging.