Will Vinegar Stop My Dog from Digging?

by Adopt a Pet, | January 8, 2024

CL Shebley / Shutterstock

Dogs do not like the smell of vinegar, so it may stop your dog from digging. Simply make a fifty-fifty mixture of vinegar and water and spray in the spots where your pets dig. While this method will be effective with some pets, it’s not a cure-all. Some dog’s drive to dig will make them push past the unpleasant scent—and some dogs won’t be bothered by vinegar at all. Still, this quick and easy method is certainly worth trying.

Know the reason

If the vinegar trick doesn’t work for you, there are many other methods you can try to stop your dog from digging. Since there are so many different reasons dog dig, start there. Knowing why your dog spends their time burrowing will help you find the best way to stop the behavior.

Below are some of the most common reasons dog tend to dig.

Boredom

Many dogs dig just because they have nothing better to do.

Fixes: Dogs are social, and they are not meant to spend all of their time outside alone. Ensure your pet gets plenty of playtime, goes on at least two long walks every day, and has access to safe, interactive toys.

Trying to cool off

If your dog digs holes and then rests in them, they are trying to stay cool.

Fixes: Dogs should not be left outside in very hot weather. If your dog must be outside, ensure they have access to shade and unlimited clean water.

Hunting

Many dogs can’t resist going after burrowing animals like moles.

Fixes: If you see signs of such animals, call a humane exterminator to safely remove them from your yard and relocate them elsewhere.

Escape attempts

Some dogs just think the grass is greener on the other side of that fence.

Fixes: You can work on stopping their escape efforts, but in the meantime, you’ll need to keep them safe. Block access to the fence with chicken wire, bury the fence a foot or two beneath the ground, or don’t leave your dog unsupervised in the yard.

Vinegar can be one tool in your arsenal to stop your dog from digging, but don’t give up if it doesn’t work! With patience and some trial and error, you’ll find what works for your pet.