Chewing, digging, jumping
How do I stop my dog digging under the fence?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Bury chicken wire or paving slabs along the base of the fence line so the ground itself becomes impossible to dig, then work out what is pulling your dog toward the boundary, whether that is another animal, loneliness, or simply too much time alone outside. Fixing the motivation matters as much as blocking the exit point.
Physically closing the gap
Dig a trench about 30 cm deep along the fence, lay galvanized mesh or flat stones flush with the ground, then backfill with soil. This stops the escape route without changing how the garden looks from a distance.
Working out the motivation
A dog that only digs at the fence when left alone outside is usually bored or anxious rather than simply curious. Squirrels, a neighboring dog, or the sound of children playing on the other side can all pull a dog toward one specific spot day after day.
Reduce unsupervised garden time
Bring your dog in when you are not actively out there with them, at least until the physical barrier is in place and any boredom or loneliness driving the digging has been addressed with more exercise and company.
Key takeaways
- Buried mesh or slabs at the fence base is the most reliable physical fix.
- Fence digging is often driven by a specific trigger on the other side, not random boredom.
- Limit unsupervised time in the garden until both the barrier and the motivation are addressed.