It’s exasperating for pet owners when their furry friends take up the hobby of digging in the backyard – no matter how hard you try to train them out of it, your mischievous pup always finds a way around! There are many methods to discourage dog digging available on the internet, but one that has been catching attention lately is… grounds from coffee.
Yes, you read that right – some people swear by using coffee grounds as an effective way to stop their dogs from digging holes in gardens and lawns. But could something so seemingly far-fetched really work? Let’s find out if this bizarre anti-digging method holds any truth or whether it should remain nothing more than an urban myth.
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Do Coffee grounds repel dogs from digging?
As with almost everything, it really depends on your dog. Most dogs have something called coffee phobia, which means that they naturally don’t like the smell of coffee grounds. This could be why some pet owners have had success using this method, as it acts as an instant deterrent and may stop your pup from digging in places you’d rather them not to.
Nonetheless, consider that all dogs are unique and some may not be deterred by the aroma of coffee grounds. If this proves to be ineffective for your canine companion, you should consider other approaches to try.
Is coffee safe for dogs?
Before actually using the coffee grounds to deter your pup from digging, it’s important to remember that caffeine is toxic for all dogs. For this reason, you should consider twice before sprinkling the coffee grounds around your garden or home.
If your dog is not particularly repelled by the smell of coffee, you must also remember that they might be tempted to ingest it – and this would likely result in serious stomach problems or even worse.
For this reason, we don’t recommend using coffee grounds to stop your dog from digging and suggest that you find alternative solutions for this problem.
6 Other methods to stop your dog from digging
A few safer alternatives for discouraging your pup from digging include:
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are excellent natural dog repellents. Have you ever walked past a freshly cut lemon or orange? The strong smell of the citrus fruit is unmistakable, and it is this smell that helps keep away the dogs in your garden or lawn.
All you have to do is cut up some lemons or oranges and spread their wedges around the area you’d like to be dog-free. Furthermore, your garden can not only be untouched by dogs, but it will also smell like a fragrant paradise!
Vinegar
Thankfully, there is also an inexpensive solution that you may already have at home – vinegar! By mixing one part vinegar with four parts water, then spraying it on the designated areas, you’ll discourage your pup from digging.
The strong scent of the vinegar will make them unlikely to return to this spot again. This method is easy and safe to implement, and can help you reduce the time spent worrying about what holes your pet might have dug while you were away!
Rocks
To help stop your pup from digging, try using big rocks. Strategically place the rocks around the area of your lawn or garden that your pup likes to dig – this discomfort should discourage them from continuing to search for something in that spot.
The rocks also create an attractive decoration as an added bonus. If you’re looking for an efficient, yet aesthetically pleasing solution to your dog’s digging problem, then this is definitely worth considering.
Although very effective this may be more difficult in a large garden and you may need to consider other methods.
Chicken wire
Similar to using big rocks, using chicken wire can be an effective way to stop your pup from digging. Place the chicken wire in the ground and make sure it is tucked in well so that your pet won’t be able to dig around it or get stuck.
It’s important to note that this method should only be used as a last resort – not only because it may hurt your pup, but also because the wire is just inconvenient and can easily be ruined if anyone steps on it.
Plenty of exercise
A more indirect solution to your pup’s digging problem is to make sure they are getting enough exercise. Dogs, like humans, tend to get bored quickly and need regular stimulation to keep them from turning to destructive behavior.
Take your pup out for a walk or playtime frequently – not only will it help stop the digging, but it can also strengthen the bond between you and your pup. A tired pup will be less likely to dig, so try to tire them out before leaving the house!
Conclusion – Do Coffee grounds stop dog digging?
Although coffee grounds do have a strong aroma that can be repulsive to some dogs, it is not recommended to use it as a repellent. The toxicity of caffeine can cause serious problems if ingested and therefore other methods should be used instead.
Fortunately, there are many safe alternatives for discouraging your pup from digging – such as citrus fruits, vinegar, rocks and chicken wire. Additionally, it is important to make sure your pup is getting enough exercise and stimulation – this can help reduce the amount of digging they do when left alone for long periods of time.
By using these safe alternatives and keeping your pup active, you can help keep your garden or lawn from being damaged by unwanted digging.
