How to Stop a Dog From Digging Under the Fence: Proven Solutions That Work

You walk outside to let the dog in, and there it is: a fresh hole right under the fence line. Maybe you’ve already filled it twice this week, or your neighbor has gently mentioned the escape artist in the backyard. Digging under fences is one of the most common and frustrating behaviors dog owners face, but it is fixable. The key is understanding why your dog digs and then installing a barrier that matches their determination. Whether you have a high-energy herder or a scent-driven explorer, these practical, owner-tested methods will help you stop the digging for good.

Why Do Dogs Dig Under Fences?

Before you start burying hardware cloth, take a moment to figure out the motivation. Dogs dig for different reasons, and the solution depends on the cause. The most common triggers are boredom and excess energy, especially in intelligent breeds like Australian Shepherds. If your dog is left alone in the yard for long stretches without mental stimulation, digging becomes a self-rewarding activity. Another major reason is prey drive: if a squirrel, rabbit, or mole lives on the other side of the fence, your dog is simply following their nose. For some dogs, especially certain guardian breeds like Cane Corsos, digging can be a way to create a cool spot to lie down or a response to feeling territorial. Watch your dog’s behavior: do they dig in one specific spot (likely a critter or a cool spot) or along the entire fence line (likely boredom or barrier frustration)?

Physical Barriers: The Most Reliable Fix

Physical barriers are the gold standard because they work regardless of your dog’s motivation. The most effective method is to bury a barrier along the fence line. Use heavy-gauge galvanized chicken wire or hardware cloth. Dig a trench about 12 to 18 inches deep along the fence, bend the bottom of the wire into an L-shape (pointing outward, away from your yard), and bury it. This creates an underground wall that stops digging cold. For a less labor-intensive option, lay large, heavy concrete pavers or flagstones directly on the ground along the fence line. Most dogs will not dig through solid stone. Another trick is to place large rocks or decorative boulders along the base of the fence. If your dog is a persistent digger, you can also attach a rolled barrier: a half-roll of wire mesh attached to the bottom of the fence that unrolls when the dog tries to dig, blocking the path.

Addressing Boredom and Excess Energy

If your dog is digging out of boredom, no barrier will fully solve the problem until you address the root cause. A tired dog is a good dog, and that means both physical exercise and mental stimulation. For high-energy breeds like Australian Shepherds, a simple walk is not enough. They need structured activity like fetch, agility, or a long run. Mental enrichment is equally important. Provide puzzle toys for Australian Shepherds or other interactive feeders that make them work for their food. Rotate toys to keep things novel. You can also create a designated digging pit in a corner of the yard. Bury safe toys or treats in a sandbox and teach your dog to dig there instead. Reward them heavily for using the pit and redirect them if they start digging near the fence.

Management and Supervision Strategies

While you are working on the longer-term solutions, management is crucial. Do not leave your dog unsupervised in the yard until the digging is fully resolved. Use a tie-out or a long line attached to a harness (never a collar) to keep them away from the fence line during potty breaks. You can also install a motion-activated sprinkler near the fence. Most dogs hate getting sprayed and will quickly associate digging with an unpleasant surprise. Another management trick is to block the view: if your dog is digging to chase or bark at things on the other side, a privacy fence slat or a row of tall shrubs can reduce the trigger.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Different breeds dig for different reasons, and understanding your dog’s breed tendencies can help you choose the best strategy. For example, Cane Corsos are powerful, determined guardians. If a Cane Corso decides to dig under a fence, they need a heavy-duty barrier, like buried concrete pavers or a chain-link fence with a concrete footer. They also need strong leadership and a job to do. On the other hand, Australian Shepherds are intelligent working dogs who dig out of sheer boredom and an instinct to herd or hunt. For an Aussie, mental stimulation is non-negotiable. A bored Aussie will find a way under, over, or through any fence. If you have a digger who is also a fast eater, consider using slow feed dog bowls for Australian Shepherds to extend mealtime and add a little extra mental work to their day.

A fence is only as strong as its weakest point, and for a determined dog, that point is always the ground.

What NOT to Do

There are a few common but ineffective or even harmful methods to avoid. Never use cayenne pepper, chili powder, or any other spicy deterrent: it can irritate your dog’s eyes and nose, and many dogs will simply dig through it anyway. Avoid leaving your dog tied up near a fence for long periods, as this can cause frustration and injury. Do not use electric shock products like underground invisible fences for a dog who digs: they will often take the shock to get out, and then they are gone. Also, avoid punishing your dog after the fact. If you come home to a hole, your dog will not connect the punishment to the digging. Instead, they will learn to be afraid of you coming home.

If you have tried multiple physical barriers and enrichment strategies and your dog is still digging excessively, it is a good idea to consult with a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. Sometimes digging can be a sign of underlying anxiety or compulsive behavior that needs professional guidance. And if you are concerned about your dog’s health, always check with your veterinarian before making major changes to their diet or routine.