Japanese Spitz is a popular breed of dog that originated in Japan. These dogs are known for their fluffy white coats, pointy ears, and playful personalities. However, one behavior that can be frustrating for owners is digging. Japanese Spitz are known to be avid diggers, and this behavior can cause damage to lawns and gardens. In this article, we will explore how to train a Japanese Spitz to stop digging.
Understanding Why Japanese Spitz Dig
Before you can train your Japanese Spitz to stop digging, it is important to understand why they dig in the first place. There are several reasons why dogs may dig, including:
Boredom – If your Japanese Spitz is bored, they may turn to digging as a way to entertain themselves.
Hunting – Japanese Spitz are descended from hunting dogs, and digging can be a natural behavior for them.
Comfort – Digging can be a way for dogs to create a comfortable spot to lie down and rest.
Escape – If your Japanese Spitz is feeling anxious or stressed, they may try to escape by digging under a fence or gate.
By understanding why your Japanese Spitz is digging, you can better address the behavior and train them to stop.
Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation
One of the best ways to prevent digging in Japanese Spitz is to provide them with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Japanese Spitz are an active breed that requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include walks, runs, and playtime in the backyard. In addition to physical exercise, it is important to provide your Japanese Spitz with mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training exercises.
By providing your Japanese Spitz with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, you can help prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of digging.
Create a Designated Digging Area
Another way to prevent digging in Japanese Spitz is to create a designated digging area. This can be a small area of the yard where your dog is allowed to dig and play. By providing your Japanese Spitz with a designated area to dig, you can help redirect their digging behavior and prevent damage to other areas of the yard.
To create a designated digging area, choose a spot in the yard that is away from any plants or structures. Dig a shallow hole and fill it with sand or loose soil. Encourage your Japanese Spitz to use the area by burying toys or treats in the sand. When your dog uses the designated digging area, be sure to praise and reward them for their good behavior.
Redirect Your Japanese Spitz’s Attention
If your Japanese Spitz is digging in an undesirable area, you can redirect their attention to a more appropriate activity. This can include playing fetch, going for a walk, or engaging in a training exercise. By redirecting your dog’s attention, you can help prevent them from digging and encourage positive behavior.
When redirecting your Japanese Spitz’s attention, it is important to be patient and consistent. It may take some time for your dog to learn the new behavior, so be sure to praise and reward them for their good behavior.
Discourage Digging in Undesirable Areas
If your Japanese Spitz continues to dig in undesirable areas, you can discourage the behavior by making the area less appealing. This can include:
Covering the area with rocks or gravel – This will make it more difficult for your dog to dig and less appealing.
Burying chicken wire or mesh – This will make it difficult for your dog to dig and discourage the behavior.
Using a deterrent spray – There are several sprays available that can be used to discourage digging. These sprays are typically made with natural ingredients and are safe for dogs.
When using a deterrent spray, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying your dog directly.
Consistency is Key
When training your Japanese Spitz to stop digging, consistency is key. It is important to be patient and consistent in your training efforts, and to praise and reward your dog for their good behavior. It may take some time for your dog to learn the new behavior, so be sure to remain patient and consistent.
In addition to consistency, it is important to be proactive in preventing digging. This can include providing your Japanese Spitz with adequate exercise and mental stimulation, creating a designated digging area, redirecting their attention, and discouraging digging in undesirable areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, digging can be a frustrating behavior for owners of Japanese Spitz. However, by understanding why your dog is digging and providing them with adequate exercise and mental stimulation, you can help prevent the behavior. Creating a designated digging area, redirecting your dog’s attention, and discouraging digging in undesirable areas can also be effective training techniques. By remaining patient and consistent in your training efforts, you can help your Japanese Spitz learn to stop digging and become a well-behaved and happy companion.
