How to Control Your Rottweiler Digging Behavior

Rottweilers are known to be high-energy dogs and without regular exercise and mental stimulation, they may result in digging to let out their energy.

This digging behavior can quickly become a problem for most owners, I totally understand how frustrating this situation can be, but it can be fixed.

I own a Rottweiler, so I understand it can be difficult to handle their high energy, especially if you are not providing enough exercise.

I will be providing you with some effective ways of controlling your Rottweiler’s digging behavior, just keep reading to find out more!

How to Control Your Rottweiler Digging Behavior

Controlling your Rottweiler’s digging behavior will need time, consistency, and lots of effort, but don’t worry, it’s something you can do.

To control your Rottweiler’s digging behavior, here are some effective steps you can take:

Find out why your Rottweiler is digging

The first step to control your Rottweiler’s digging behavior is to find out why they are digging in the first place.

In one of my articles, I discuss some reasons your Rottweiler may be digging, which include the following:

Lack of exercise
Lack of mental stimulation
Out of frustration
Breed instincts
Searching for prey
Trying to escape
Excessive pent-up energy
Separation anxiety
Stress

The list can go on and on…

Here is a detailed article to learn more about why your Rottweiler is digging.

Once you can find out why your Rottweiler is digging, the problem becomes easier to solve.

Block access to the digging spot

The next step to take is to block your Rottweiler’s access to the digging spot completely.

The digging area could be your backyard, garden, walkway, front of your house, or any spot.

To do this, you can build a small fence at the spot, use wood to block the spot, and always lock the door to the digging spot.

Keep in mind that this is just a temporary solution and won’t stop this behavior completely.

Make the digging spot unattractive

If for any reason you can’t block off the digging spot, then the next alternative is to make the digging spot unattractive for Rottweiler.

To make the digging spot unattractive, I suggest a couple of things which include:

Putting spikes in the spot, as it will serve as a deterrent.
Installing motion sensor sprinkler
Putting curry plant in the spot
Putting Marigolds or calendula on the spot
Try putting chili powder and black pepper dog repellent on the spot.

Again, keep in mind that this is just a temporary solution and won’t stop this behavior completely.

Provide regular exercise for your Rottweiler

One of the best ways to control your Rottweiler’s digging behavior is by providing them with regular exercise.

Keep in mind that lack of exercise could be one of the few reasons your Rottweiler is digging.

So suggest you provide regular exercise for your Rottweiler, as that will help control digging behavior.

This can be done in several ways, which include;

Playing fetch with your Rottweiler
Taking your Rottweiler on a walk
Running or jogging with your Rottweiler.

Keep in mind, that the major aim of exercising your Rottweiler is to help them let out excessive energy, which is causing them to dig.

Find out more about exercising your Rottweiler here.

Providing regular mental stimulation

Another effective way of controlling your Rottweiler’s digging behavior is by providing them with lots of mental stimulation activities.

This will help redirect or distract them from excessive digging, there are many ways you can achieve this, which include;

Providing interactive toys such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys
Playing a game of hiding treats and having your Rottweiler search for them
Playing which hand game with your Rottweiler
Teaching your Rottweiler new commands and tricks
Playing a game of hide-and-seek with your Rottweiler

By providing your Rottweiler with a lot of mental stimulation activities, you will help them stay away from digging in your backyard.

Create a designated digging area

Since Rottweilers love to dig, giving them an area where they’re free to do so can be quite beneficial.

Establish a designated area in your yard where digging by your Rottweiler is acceptable.

Ensure that it’s a place where no buildings or vegetation will impede its growth.

You might even construct a sandbox for them to dig in or simply draw a boundary around it.

Soil it loosely with sand to replicate their natural digging habitat.

Redirect your Rottweiler to their allotted area whenever you notice them beginning to dig elsewhere and give them praise when they succeed in digging there.

Supervise outdoor playtime

If you think of controlling your Rottweiler’s digging behavior, it’s important to keep a close check on your Rottweiler when they’re playing outside.

Gently but firmly stop them if you see them beginning to dig in places they shouldn’t.

You can give a firm “no” instruction, clap your hands, or even divert their focus with a treat or toy. Here, consistency is crucial.

You may reinforce the idea that digging in the authorized area is the better alternative by catching them in the act and correcting their behavior.

Provide toys and chew bones

A common reason for excessive digging is boredom, therefore, I suggest you make sure your Rottweiler has a variety of toys and chew bones to keep them occupied and mentally challenged.

Select digging-themed toys, including puzzle or treat-dispensing toys. These can help them refocus their innate digging tendencies and provide them with a constructive way to release their energy.

Giving them strong chew bones will also help satiate their need to chew, which may lessen their inclination to dig.

Keep your Rottweiler entertained

Along with toys and chew bones, I recommend you keep your Rottweiler engaged and entertained in other ways.

Regular exercise, such as walks or play sessions, can help burn off excess energy and reduce the likelihood of them resorting to digging as a way to release pent-up energy.

Mental stimulation is equally important, so consider incorporating training sessions or brain games into their daily routine.

This will not only tire them out but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Conclusion

In summary, it takes time, effort, and positive reinforcement to control your Rottweiler’s digging habit. You may stop them from being destructive by giving them mental and physical activity, rerouting their energy, and designating specific places for digging. Keep in mind that an intellectually engaged and physically active Rottweiler makes a happy and contented companion.