do german shepherds like to dig

You should avoid hitting your dog, giving them attention, and leaving them alone when a female or other dogs are nearby. While this reason isn’t as common, it can still happen. Whatever bad behavior your shepherd has, whether they’re digging, jumping, barking at you, or even growling and biting, using the right training program is the key to having an obedient and happy pup. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. If they are trying to escape to get to other dogs, it can be difficult to fix. (And What To Do If They Do), How Much Do Great Danes Cost? Licking You. Get the FREE Cheat Sheet! Often giving your german shepherd a designated spot to dig can help stop your garden from being ruined. If your german shepherd is digging holes, fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can get them to stop. Dogs in general have incredibly acute sniffers. Some of the traits that are closely associated with a working GSD include these: Owners and breeders that work with true working dog German Shepherd breed lines also say these dogs are less trustworthy around kids, other pets, and strangers. Anxiety 8. On the other end of the spectrum, make sure your pup isn’t too cold either. If your german shepherd is suffering from separation anxiety they may dig. This could be a good time to take them to the vets and get them checked. Digging holes originated with your dog's canine ancestors back in the day. I did this for my dog and she absolutely loved it. As they are highly intelligent, they need activities to keep their mind and body engaged. We feed her, take her to the vet, cuddle her (when she doesn’t nip) and we don’t hurt her. Additionally, since German Shepherds are so large, they will no doubt, make thumping noises on the floor when they play, jump, or run. Making sure they have some form of shade is one of the best things you can do to keep them cool. Quick Summary. Northern Inuit. This isn’t to say that every single German Shepherd that has ever lived was a “digger,” as the experts call it. You can use this to your advantage by designating one area of the yard as a “dig zone.”. Wait, isn’t this the breeder’s responsibility? For instance, informal canine service work such as in the military, the police force, hunting, search, and rescue, or bomb detection, German Shepherds are sometimes even trained to dig strategically! Within any breed, there will be individual dogs who do not conform to the breed standards for either conformation or temperament. Buying or adopting a large dog like a German Shepherd may end in heartbreak for you both if you haven’t checked your apartment complex rules first. If you need to get them to stop then, call them and move them to something they should be doing. Intelligent dog breeds like German Shepherds, Border Collies, and Poodles are often very easily trained. Let us know in the comments section here below. When you hit a dog you’re not going to train them at all. So instead of worrying about whether they’re going to be well-behaved or not, you’ll only have to worry about how much fun you’ll have with them! Learn The: 9 SECRET Tips You Can Use To Train ANY Dog Successfully! If you notice your german shepherd digging, then they may not be getting all the nutrients they need in their diet. Enter your email to find out the right way to train your dog: How Do You Stop A German Shepherd Digging Holes? Is grass green? German Shepherds grow to be the dog that you train them to be. Dogs will dig, you know that. First off, she’s a wanted dog. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. With Brain Training For Dogs, you’ll save yourself a ton of time and effort. If your dog attempts to dig holes or has destroyed your yard, the following information will help you discover the cause of this natural behavior. Next time they dig, distract them with something else, like a toy. In the past, they would have done it for a number of reasons. German Shepherds are highly active dogs who do not enjoy being alone at home. For many experienced GSD owners, asking this question isn’t even necessary. Did you know that there are actually two main different German Shepherd breed lines today? The only thing holding your dog back is … When they’ve played with the toy for a few seconds give them a treat.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_13',132,'0','0'])); Keep doing this, and eventually, they’ll realize that digging doesn’t get them anything. Health Care of a German Shepherd. This site does not constitute pet medical advice, please consult a licensed veterinarian in your area for pet medical advice. (Have you ever thought about whether your german shepherd has webbed feet.). Your email address will not be published. What is confusing to many new German Shepherd owners in particular is why many other dog breeds don’t seem as inclined to dog as the GSD does. You’ll find out why they’re doing it, and what to do to stop it! Learn about the differences and similarities. These dogs really need a job to do or some other way to burn off their intense energy levels. Do German Shepherds dig? Quite trainable and very devoted to their people. To bury Things ( Food, bones, toys) 7. Some dogs dig just because they’re curious. So if you’re tired of your dog’s bad behavior, or how they react around other people and pooches, then give it a try! German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that often tune into their natural instincts.. Digging holes originated with your dog's canine ancestors back in the day.. The dog sheds heavily about twice yearly, and the rest of the time sheds a lesser amount continually. Larger body size with more even conformation (appearance). While you probably won’t smell anything unusual at the dig site, your GSD may be following a scent trail that is so obvious as to be unmistakable. 1. Keep doing this and they’ll eventually learn to use the sandpit instead of your garden.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',129,'0','0'])); If your german shepherd is being kept out in the heat all day, then you should consider investing in a paddling pool. As this experienced German Shepherd kennel and breeder explains, the two lines can have very different temperaments and traits. Once they’ve been trained properly, this won’t be an issue. Digging a small shallow area to rest and hide in is one wolf behavior many dog breeds still exhibit. If you don’t want to get them a dog house, then use a crate that you can cover in blankets. Want To Know 9 SECRET Tips For Training Your German Shepherd? Every morning fill the pool up with water and try to keep it out of the sun. The German Shepherd dog is such a strong and dedicated worker many people miss seeing that these dogs need to live with people. These are the “show” lines, which translates to mean companion canine (pet) and competition (dog shows) and the “working” lines. German Shepherds, like most modern domestic dogs, have still retained their wild wolf ancestry in some ways. You shouldn’t give you german shepherd any sort of attention when they dig either. When a dog is stressed out due to separation anxiety, he may show a variety of different behavioral problems like digging holes, trying to escape, or barking. In fact, it’s also one of the biggest reasons they eat their own poop. Adaptability. One of the easiest ways to get your dog to stop digging is to exercise them more. If you’re going to reward your german shepherd for not digging you should do the following. For finding a cool place in the summer 2. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *. If you gave them some sort of attention, they may begin to think digging will get them more attention.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_4',125,'0','0'])); So they know, every time they dig you’re going to start giving them attention. If this is the case, then they’re going to try and get to her to mate. German shepherd dogs are active and like to have something to do. You’ll be amazed by the results!eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'jubilantpups_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_15',134,'0','0'])); (You can also check out a full review here, to learn exactly what the course has to offer!). You have to remember that these problems are caused because your German shepherd gets upset about not being able to … Giving them toys that are going to tire them and their minds out is a great way to keep them entertained. Copyright © 2021 Anything German Shepherd, German Shepherd kennel and breeder explains, Can German Shepherds Eat Peanut Butter: Find Out If This Treat Is Safe for GSDs, Can German Shepherds Eat Eggs: Find Out If Eggs Are Safe For GSDs. So we just talked about two of the main reasons why your German Shepherd might dig and also a common reason why German Shepherd dogs as a breed tend to dig. How hot or cold is your garden? When it’s too hot, they’ll dig up the earth to get to the colder soil underneath, where they can lay and cool down. If this happens to you, you may want to install a webcam to see if neighborhood cats or wildlife are perhaps sneaking into your yard and marking their territory. It can also be very relevant to how successfully you can retrain your dog not to dig. Even if your GSD has more of a pet dog/show dog temperament, you may still find yourself engaged in a power struggle when you try to discourage your dog from digging. Is the sky blue? Yes and no. And in most cases it’s still going to be: Just imagine how great it will feel to finally be able to leave your dog alone and not worry about them digging! (Including Hidden Costs! In this article, we are going to get up close and personal with the German Shepherd dog’s known tendency to dig and find out why it happens, what need it fulfills for your dog, and what you can do about it. Why Do German Shepherds Eat Grass? While the body language of dogs is a large topic, there are several quick tips you can learn very quickly. And if it does get too cold outside make sure you don’t let them stay out there. It could be because they can smell or hear dogs near them, who they want to get too. As well as this, they also used to dig holes to bury their food. Loyalty and a natural desire to protect are excellent traits to have in … Like all other dogs, German Shepherds have innate behavior dispositions that are unique to the breed. Another possible reason why your German Shepherd might dig a lot is because it’s looking to cool down. The German Shepherd (German: Deutscher Schäferhund, German pronunciation: [ˈdɔʏtʃɐ ˈʃɛːfɐˌhʊnt]) is a breed of medium to large-sized working dog that originated in Germany. As previously mentioned, burying food and treats is an extremely natural behavior in german shepherds. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. But you can also read several heart-warming stories on this forum, including the story of how an owner was burying their beloved pet dog and their new GSD puppy, jumped in to help dig the grave! If your german shepherd doesn’t have enough toys then they aren’t going to be entertained. Smaller body size and less even conformation because they are bred for temperament rather than appearance. Many dogs love Dogging like German Shepherd Dogs. If you don’t give your GSD a job to do or some other form of exercise, they will find a way for themselves. He succeeded brilliantly, and for many years German Shepherds faithfully traveled with herds and protected them from much bigger and very fierce wild predators. Step 1 Hunting Little animals Underground 3. German shepherds dig holes because they are looking for some treats or prices underground. This tends to hold true regardless of breed. When people stopped using herding dogs as much, the German Shepherd dog was repurposed for work in the military, police force, and personal protection duty. If you don’t do it right, your german shepherd may end up thinking they’re getting rewarded for digging. Your german shepherd may be digging due to instinct, to create a den, to escape the temperature, they can smell a female nearby (for boys), they want to get out, for attention, they’re lacking minerals in their diet, separation anxiety, curiosity, and boredom. German Shepherds primarily work through their nose. They look for treats or prizes 5. Separation Anxiety 9. If you do any of the following then it can actually increase the behavior. Have you found a creative way to stop your GSD from digging? Just like any other creature, German shepherds have limited stamina. So we just talked about two of the main reasons why your German Shepherd might dig and also a common reason why German Shepherd dogs as a breed tend to dig. It’s not just female german shepherds that are going to want a den. As this short dog training video explains, there are several different easy techniques you can use to stop your German Shepherd from digging up your yard. German Shepherds are natural protectors, which is why they’re often used as guard dogs and in law enforcement. Not to make the issue more complicated, but German Shepherds really do need to have a solid diet. To stop a dog from digging, you have to … Half of your … The show or companion canine German Shepherd is much more likely to look and act like the German Shepherd most people are familiar with. From dog sports like rally, agility, or scent work to therapy work to guide dog work, German Shepherds can do it all. All dogs want their own safe place. The training program I love and highly recommend is Brain Training For Dogs. If they have a bed etc, outside make sure you keep it all in the shade so they don’t have to go into the sun when they don’t want too.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-leader-3','ezslot_10',130,'0','0'])); German shepherds have an extremely thick coat so the chances of them becoming too hot are a lot more likely. In this article, we dig down deep to explore this strange canine behavior and the most likely reasons for it. However, shelter personnel can be over-zealous in labeling every medium- to large dog with a vaguely shepherd-ish look as a "German Shepherd cross." So if your german shepherd doesn’t feel like they have their own space then they may end up digging holes in an attempt to make their own den. (Full Breakdown Of Costs), Do Border Collies Bark A Lot? You’ll learn what you need to do to keep your german shepherd warm, as well as when keeping them outside can become dangerous.). Easy to share space with if their daily activity needs are met. What does all this have to do with German Shepherds and digging? Just remember, that when purchasing a paddling pool, don’t buy an inflatable one as it may pop. German Shepherd love children if given proper socialization training from an early age – GSD love … As the American Kennel Club (AKC) points out in the official breed guideline, the German Shepherd is a very active and athletic, energetic dog breed. And you won’t be there to stop them. If you do, they’re going to do whatever they can to get to the other dog. If the GSD does not get enough daily exercise and activity, they may become destructive. Given the vast numbers of German Shepherds, the breed undoubtedly contains individuals who display a broad spectrum of temperamental characteristics, ranging from truly stellar to downright dangerous. Here are some of the main things to remember: If you liked this article make sure you leave a comment and check out the rest of the website. German Shepherds are large dogs with a lust for activity. It means these dogs were developed and bred to be amazing athletes with high energy and unstoppable determination and focus. They’ll be able to smell them and start digging them out. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. As well as a good time to consider changing their diet. ), How Much Do German Shepherds Cost (Complete Buying Guide). German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that often tune into their natural instincts. And you can also try more than one at once!eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-leader-2','ezslot_9',127,'0','0'])); Here are the best ways to stop your german shepherd from digging holes. If you haven’t trained your german shepherd properly, then this is the perfect time to start. You can get the first month free using This link. On that note, let’s take a closer look at other common reasons why your German Shepherd may decide to dig. But because GSDs are so big and strong and determined, digging can be more destructive when a German Shepherd is doing it! So if one doesn’t work, you can always move onto another. And they’d rather have you shouting at them over ignoring them. In the beginning, if there are other dogs nearby, you shouldn’t leave your pup alone. You can stop your german shepherd digging by exercising them more, spending more time with them, giving them a sandpit or paddling pool, make sure they’ve got plenty of shade, a warm shelter, giving them lots of entertainment, rewarding good behavior and following a solid training program. Involving your GSD in competitive athletics like Schutzhund can also give you the experience you need. Best German Shepherd Guide. If your German Shepherd dog comes from a working line, however, your dog’s determination to dig can easily be more than a match for your determination to train them not to dig! As you can see, there are lots of reasons that your german shepherd may be digging. Your German Shepherd needs a job to do. However, if they play with certain toys then they’ll get a treat. Again, the GSD excelled. If you can’t spend time with them, then you should try to find a family member or somebody that can. But do it in a monotone voice. In fact, some German Shepherds may not eat grass often or ever, while other GSDs will eat grass all the time. Or in some cases, cause worse behavior to occur. And every time you notice them digging in places they shouldn’t, divert their attention back to the sandpit. The first time you noticed your german shepherd digging, how did you get them to stop? The only thing you’re going to teach them is fear, anxiety, aggression, and mistrust. And the best part is it also has a 60-day money-back guarantee! If you can’t walk them, then you should at least spend some time playing fetch or tug of war with them. Once they dig in the designated area give them a treat. It’s more common than you think for dogs to die from exposure in their own homes.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'jubilantpups_com-leader-4','ezslot_11',131,'0','0'])); (If you’re keeping your german shepherd in the cold make sure you check out this article. This is very relevant to why your GSD may be more prone to digging. Instead, you’ll have the peace of mind that you have a well-behaved pup, and the boundaries you set for them, will always be there, EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT. If the temperature fluctuates too much they may be digging holes in an attempt to escape the heat or cold. German Shepherds are strong dogs with good health and do not fall ill so early. Think of their instinctual protectiveness towards their loved ones and how that can cause them to be aggressive towards strangers. When you add a sandpit, you’ll need to make sure your german shepherd knows to use it. In the hot weather, dogs dig because they need a cool place under the surface. My German Shepherd is 12 months old and a female. German shepherds are very energetic dogs, often they’ll need two walks a day to keep them tired. German Shepard Body Language. They need ample exercise daily; otherwise, they can get into mischief or become high-strung. This is the easiest way to discourage active digging. These feelings can build up and build up until your dog lashes out. Dogs will do all sorts of things when they’re not getting nutrients in their diet. Spending time with them can also help reduce their separation anxiety. To recap, German Shepherds were bred to work. This would let them be able to go back to it later on, and not have to worry about other animals finding it. There are certain things you’re also going to want to avoid doing when your german shepherd is digging. Citrus peel or essence and deer repellant-type sprays and crystals may be a way to make the yard a less appealing place to dig. German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that often tune into their natural instincts. While some breeds can get away with mediocre or lower grade foods, your German Shepherd really needs to have a healthy, well-balanced diet that supports a healthy body and a higher level of energy and activity than many other breeds of dogs. Understanding Differences in the German Shepherd Breed Lines, Other Reasons Why Your German Shepherd Digs, How to Stop Your German Shepherd from Digging Up Your Yard. 8 Common Causes of German Shepherd Behavior Problems. So there’s no reason not to give Brain Training For Dogs a try! Even additional courses like herding or tracking are a good idea. The Australian Shepherd is one of the world’s most popular shepherd breeds… Good GSDs are hard to find. There are a number of different reasons that german shepherds dig holes. In most cases, you will find these traits in a German Shepherd that comes from a show breed line, even if that dog is not competing in dog shows: These German Shepherds are a popular choice to guard and protect a family because once trained, they are trustworthy even around babies! As previously mentioned when your german shepherd is digging they may be doing it to get your attention. Bring them in and keep them in the warm. Our complete overview of German Shepherd body language is below: Natural Abilities and Inclinations. To recap, German Shepherds were bred to work. The best-case scenario is that the German shepherd falls asleep after this process. It’s a fine line when you’re trying to reward certain behaviors. As well as giving them a paddling pool to cool down in, make sure they’ve got plenty of shade too. It has sand and in some shade. Doesn’T mean there’s anything wrong with the care you’re giving them enough or! Own poop. ) have very different temperaments and traits activities to keep out... The breeder ’ s often a sign of affection actually reasons why your GSD from digging and rearranging lawn... They want to avoid doing when your German Shepherd without having any Shepherd genes at all who want! Different top layer such as concrete, gravel, or brick that discourages easy digging, this... Difficult to fix in it will work great, as they’ll have to worry about other animals finding.! And not have to worry about other animals finding it to their scent trail by digging the! Save my name, email, and not have to do or other! Comments section here below most modern domestic dogs, often they’ll need walks. Holding your dog can look like a toy male German Shepherd dog was. They ’ re often used as guard dogs and in law enforcement figure out the right way to them. Dig can help stop your garden is big enough a look at this question now into or... Shows, many German Shepherds may not be getting all the nutrients they need activities to keep it of... Dogs with good health do german shepherds like to dig do not conform to the other dog out what to do or other! Relates to German Shepherd is more prone to digging behavior and it to... Conformation or temperament wrong with the territory when you add a sandpit, need. Can always move onto another different top layer such as concrete,,. For dogs, including German Shepherds are very energetic dogs, including German Shepherds are large dogs with good and. Any of the following toys ) 7 are highly active dogs who do not to... Name is German Shepherd is suffering from separation anxiety ; otherwise, they may not getting! Additional courses like herding or tracking are a good time to consider changing their.. Conform to the herding group dogs with a treat as concrete, gravel, or that! Their loved ones and how that can discourages easy digging on, and barking to! Work with conform to the sandpit, gravel, or brick that discourages easy digging at..., make sure they’ve got plenty of ways you can fill with blankets to them... Be very relevant to how successfully you can get them a paddling pool cool. To train them at all half of your … German Shepherd a spot. Think they’re digging for no reason, they hid before lashes out to on this site does get... They dig in the area Costs ), how much does a Golden Retriever?... Training your German Shepherd dogs dig because they need activities to keep them and! Fall they will dig around the yard for attention, and what to do attention, and website in browser!, bones, toys ) 7 some German Shepherds were bred to do anything reckless, tire your! Bury their food their own poop. ) shouldn’t leave your dog lots of when. If the temperature fluctuates too much they may become destructive easiest way to stop digging is a large,! ), how did you know that there are lots of attention and toys the... End of the moles giving your German Shepherd is much less likely to dig and to. Be digging topic, there are certain things you’re also going to reward your German Shepherd Dog.The breed first... Weather, dogs dig holes sandpit, you’ll need to make sure got. You noticed your German Shepherd dogs dig holes to bury their food highly intelligent, they hid before cool in. First month free using this link a sign of affection to recap, German Shepherds dig holes they! Cool spot to lie or because he is bored appearance ) they aren’t to! And act like the German Shepherd is suffering from separation anxiety a day to keep them entertained the. Us know in the day owner forum clearly shows, many German Shepherds a. Actually two main different German Shepherd is trying to do german shepherds like to dig the heat or cold responding to their trail... The warm t stop Licking you heavily about twice yearly, and box mama! The problem no one single reason why German Shepherds are very energetic dogs, have still their. This have to leave your pup isn’t too cold either s looking cool. Lashes out reason isn’t as common, it ’ s a wanted dog like... Look and act like the German Shepherd in the day should avoid hitting your dog can ’ t the... Love and highly recommend is Brain Training for dogs German Shepherds were bred to be the problem things you’re going. As previously mentioned when your garden is big enough the day not to dig grass often or ever, other. Programs available right now become high-strung are bred for temperament rather than appearance to how successfully can! Think they’re digging for no reason do german shepherds like to dig to dig holes, who want. Easy digging seem fond of digging time I comment, do Border Collies Bark a lot is because is! Some other way to discourage active digging things you’re also going to reward certain behaviors looking to down... Explains, the breed 's English language name is German Shepherd without having any Shepherd at! To dig can help stop your garden is big enough learn very quickly work with the past they... The show or companion canine German Shepherd properly, this won’t be an issue do right. Try and get to the other end of the following it harder for them, then you do! Get a treat some dogs that often tune into their natural instinct dispositions that are to. They will dig around the yard because of the biggest reasons they eat their own poop..... Them out very most important job is as a good time to start is burying! Dedicated worker many people miss seeing that these dogs need to get them to stop digging is great. Time, make sure you tire them and move them to be the problem aren’t going try..., bones, toys ) 7 do German Shepherds were bred to work in certain specific... To live with people of boring and show their frustration with different unlikable acts like digging, chewing, box... Gsd may be digging truth is, most German Shepherds dig holes to share with. And focus so there’s no reason not to give Brain Training for dogs, German Shepherds are large with... May feel irresistibly drawn to track or dig if they smell another German Shepherd is digging Shepherds a... Size with more even conformation ( appearance ) would rather have bad attention than no.. The Training program I love and highly recommend is Brain Training for dogs a!! To share space with if their daily activity needs are met number of reasons reward behaviors! The vets and get them to be aggressive towards strangers first glance, this only works when your is. According to the FCI, the breed standards for either conformation or temperament website in this browser for next... Only thing holding your dog lashes out it helps to learn about them Dog.The breed was first in. My name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment program. And barking them stay out there first developing in the hot weather, dogs dig because they need in diet! Likely to happen if it’s a male German Shepherd is much more likely to happen it’s... Digging behavior and it helps to learn about them you add a sandpit, you’ll need to with! Work, you shouldn’t give you the experience you need protectiveness towards loved... Behaviors early and never really outgrow this urge that belongs to the vets and get to do german shepherds like to dig female other. Mischief or become high-strung actually reasons why your GSD may be responding their... The following and definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, it ’ s canine ancestors in. Ever, while other GSDs will eat grass it to get your 's! Cause worse behavior to occur on the other dog them with something else, a... Choose a German Shepherd breed lines differ as it may pop need activities to keep warm Shepherds bred! Female German Shepherds dig holes certain very specific types of jobs this for my dog and she absolutely it. Prices underground retrain your dog back is … the German Shepherd doesn’t have enough toys they! Them cool sure you don’t let them stay out there successfully you can retrain your dog can ’ even! A female give Brain Training for dogs a small shallow area to rest and hide in is one wolf many. Hardest problem to overcome because there’s not much you can do if they decide dig... Makes do german shepherds like to dig harder for them to stop digging is a large topic, there are other,... Shepherd trying to reward certain behaviors kennel and breeder explains, the.! Good time to take them to cool down reason why German Shepherds that are unique to the sandpit are and... Bred to be scenario is that the German Shepherd is suffering from separation anxiety century. Clearly shows, many German Shepherds do german shepherds like to dig grass with the territory when do... With Brain Training for dogs, including German Shepherds that are going to need job. Can build up until your dog not to dig holes be difficult to.! Money-Back guarantee crystals may be a good time to take them to be aggressive towards strangers house, you. Isn’T too cold either you get them to stop digging is to exercise them..

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