Digging

Digging is an instinct. Dogs dig to cool off in hot weather, to find rodents or insects, to bury or retrieve items, to make a nest or to escape. Terriers and some hounds were bred for it, and a bored, under-exercised dog may dig simply because it is fun.

Working out the reason points to the answer. Provide shade and water for a hot dog, give more exercise and mental activity to a bored one, and fence the bottom of the yard for an escape artist. Many owners give a dog its own digging spot, such as a sandpit, and reward use of it.

Scolding after the fact does not work, since the dog cannot link it to the hole. A dog that digs at floors or carpet while left alone may be showing anxiety and should be assessed by a professional.