Chewing, digging, jumping
Why does my dog dig more when it is hot outside?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Soil a few centimeters down stays noticeably cooler than the surface on a hot day, so digging a shallow pit and lying in it is a genuine way for a dog to cool off. Breeds with thick double coats or short flat faces often dig the most in warm weather.
Cooler ground just below the surface
Digging down even 10 to 15 cm can reach soil several degrees cooler than the air temperature, so a dog scratching out a shallow depression and lying in it is often trying to manage their own body heat rather than being destructive.
Which dogs feel it most
Dogs with dense double coats and dogs with short flat faces both struggle more to cool down through panting alone, so they tend to dig for relief more than lean, single coated breeds during a hot afternoon.
Better cooling options
A shaded spot, a cooling mat, and access to fresh water outside all reduce the need to dig for temperature reasons. On genuinely hot days, limit outside time to early morning and evening rather than the midday sun.
Key takeaways
- Soil just below the surface is noticeably cooler than the air on a hot day.
- Thick coated and flat faced breeds tend to dig more in warm weather.
- Shade, a cooling mat, and water reduce the need to dig for temperature relief.