As we have seen, this is a German Shepherd behavior that can have different reasons, so the best thing we can do is fight several fronts at the same time by applying different tips, so we will have a better chance of success. It is very important that you are constant and patient since correcting this behavior requires time and a lot of perseverance. These are some tips that you can carry out:

Correct him properly

One of the reasons your dog is poking holes in your yard is simply because no one has corrected him properly. Dogs are not born knowing what is right and what is wrong. What is clearly bad behavior to you is totally harmless to your dog. Therefore we should never get angry with him as this simply will not help.

Create an allowed zone

As we have told you, correcting this behavior without giving your dog an alternative will make it more difficult to correct the problem, especially in the first days. If your dog has a natural need to dig, it is best to provide him with a suitable alternative (an area where he can dig) and correct him when he does it in an area where he cannot.

Create a specific area (wooden box, enclosed area) where we will put sand. Design it in such a way that whatever it does not interfere with the rest of the garden. To encourage its use, you can bury prizes or small toys in it. Always reward your dog every time you see him use this area with food or praise.

Provide physical and mental stimulation

When someone tells me that their dog digs holes in the garden, the first thing I ask is if their dog gets enough exercise every day. One of the most common mistakes, when we have a garden or backyard, is to believe that dogs can relieve themselves there and therefore have no need to go for a walk. Dogs in general and especially some breeds (beagle, boxer, border collie…etc.) need to do physical exercise in the form of long walks and games in order to consume energy and channel it properly. Otherwise, they themselves will look for ways to reduce it, which can translate into bad behaviors such as compulsively digging holes or destroying things.

Conclusion

You can always contact a German Shepherd Expert Breeder– at German Shepherd Guard Dogs by Wustenbergerland if you want to deal with a digging problem with your furry buddy. If you’re one of those lucky people to have a garden at home, don’t let your dog ruin such a precious space. This problem can be solved if we correct our dog properly, we give the appropriate alternatives and we are patient and constant. Over time, your dog will learn to use the alternative that you have proposed and the toys and physical and mental exercise will help him focus on other activities that are more beneficial and productive for him.