How To Stop Your Dog From Destroying Your Back Yard

Destructive behavior in dogs is not only frustrating to deal with but can also be a sign that something is wrong with your dog's health or lifestyle. Here are a few of the most common causes of this type of behavior as well as tips on how to stop your dog from destroying your back yard.

Boredom

Boredom is one of the leading causes of destructive behavior in dogs. When dogs don't have enough to keep them occupied, they will find their own way to entertain themselves. Unfortunately, this often means digging holes in your otherwise perfect flowerbed or lawn, clawing at your brand new fence or chewing on your deck railings.

Putting an end to destructive behavior caused by boredom starts with finding ways to keep your dog occupied. Consider investing in a treat dispensing toy. These toys can be filled with bits of dog food or sticky snacks like peanut butter and are a great way to keep your dog busy for long periods of time. Additionally, be sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise and that he gets lots of love and attention when you are home.

Separation Anxiety

Many dogs become fearful and anxious when left alone. This fear and anxiety often manifests itself as destructive behavior. A dog that suffers from separation anxiety may bark, urinate, defecate, scratch or dig excessively while you are away.

One way of easing separation anxiety is by making the experience of being alone more pleasurable for your dog. For instance, you could give them a special treat every time you leave the house. Treat dispensing toys are an ideal choice since they often keep your dog occupied for long periods of time. Just be sure to only give the treat when you are leaving so they start to associate delicious food with being alone.

Kong Stuffed with Frozen Peanut Butter

You can also ease their anxiety by being calm when you leave and when you arrive home. Instead of talking in an excited voice and getting your dog all riled up, make it seem like your leaving is no big deal.

If neither of these tactics work, you may want to consider enrolling your dog in doggy daycare. This allows them to interact with other dogs and people, preventing the types of situations that often lead to destructive behavior

Getting your dog to stop destroying your back yard starts with understanding what triggers him to act out in the first place..In most cases, when you address issues such as boredom or separation anxiety, the destructive behavior will stop on its own.

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