Not In My Back Yard - How to Keep Your Dog from Digging Up the Flower Beds
from All Animals, HSUS

Difficult as it is for us dog lovers, we sometimes need to recognize that our dogs really are dogs, not humans in furry suits. Canines have certain needs, such as exercise, entertainment and quality time spent with their pack (you). And they love to do certain things like running the fence and digging up the pansies. Most problem behaviors can be corrected through training and positive, consistent reinforcement. But you can also solve a lot of problems if you consider their needs when designing your garden, and you can redirect their outdoor activities in positive ways.

Your dog is a territorial animal and will use certain pathways through the yard on a regular basis, especially around the perimeter. Patrolling is part of his job. Instead of yelling at him, use those paths to define your garden spaces. Don't put your rose bed along the back fence and expect him to keep out of it, because he sometimes can't. Instead, consider planting roses at intervals in large tubs (he can go around these), and put the rest in a bed outside of his working area.

Some dogs might run through the flower beds and then seem confused about your anger. Make sure your garden areas are clearly defined, with visible edging or even low border fencing, and try to use a different mulch in the beds than on the pathways. This will make it much easier for your pet to learn what you want him to do.

If your dog is a world-class digger, think about providing him with a personal sandbox. Sand is easy to brush out of fur and blends nicely with most heavy clay soils should Fido get wild and messy. Put the sandbox in a shady area, so he'll have a cool spot for lying in his nice holes. You can even landscape around it with rocks or bricks that blend with the rest of your garden.

Water-loving canines are in much the same category as diggers. If swimming is in his genes, what about adding a water feature just for him? It can be as simple as a kiddie wading pool or as sophisticated as you can afford. Dogs have no preference - thank heavens - they just want to get wet. If you also have a decorative pond, be very clear about which pool is Fido's and which is yours. Throw in some heavy rubber toys to ensure he leaves your expensive koi alone.

Pets that cause a lot of destruction are frequently bored and under-exercised. Long walks, dog sports and training classes can be a big help, especially when combined with quality toys for daily entertainment.

The truth is, as much as he loves you and wants to please you, he's always going to be a dog. The more you provide for his needs in your landscape, the happier the two of you will be in the garden together.