There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time planting flowers, vegetables, or fresh grass — only to wake up and find your garden full of holes. If you have a dog (or even a curious cat), you probably know this struggle all too well. Pets love to dig, but that doesn’t mean your garden has to suffer.

Most of the time, digging happens when dogs are left outside unsupervised for too long, and they need something to do. Sometimes, they’re trying to seek entertainment or get your attention. Or, they just want to cool off or find a way out. Digging could mean that they’re bored, stressed, or just following their natural instincts. 

Instead of stopping the digging altogether, give your pet a designated spot or create a dog-friendly yard where digging is allowed. Use soft soil or sand, bury a few toys or treats, and reward them when they dig there. It redirects the behavior in a positive way and helps protect your garden. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to keep pets out of your garden by setting up a dedicated digging zone, along with some extra tips and things to keep in mind.

To set up a digging zone for your dog, start by choosing a good location–away from your garden beds and delicate plants. You’ll want to pick a well-draining area and ensure you can cover the pit with a tarp when it’s not in use to avoid a muddy mess after it rains. A shaded corner would work well, especially if your dog likes to cool off in the dirt. You can use something impermanent for the digging zone itself, like a kiddie pool or a sandbox, or dig a shallow pit and line it with landscape fabric and gravel.

Use clean, washed play sand that’s labeled safe for children or pets, as it’s soft on the paws and free from harmful chemicals. You can outline the space using wood planks, rocks, or garden edging so your pet knows exactly where digging is allowed. Regularly raking the sand and replacing it when needed can help keep the area clean and inviting for your dog. And if you’ve got outdoor cats or critters around, add a light cover to keep it clean.

A digging pit for your dog should be big enough for them to move around and dig comfortably. For bigger dogs, the pit should be at least half their body length wide and around 1 foot deep. Smaller dogs can have a pit that’s about the same length as their body. The exact dimensions will depend on your dog’s size and how deep they like to dig. Don’t forget to offer fresh water and some shade nearby, especially during the summertime.

Once you’ve set up a digging zone, you can do a few extra things to make sure it actually works. First, keep an eye on your dog during the early stages. Supervision helps you catch any missteps and gently guide them back to the right spot. It’s all part of the training process. Additionally, avoid punishing your pet for digging where they shouldn’t, as, instead of solving the problem, it can lead to anxiety or more sneaky digging behavior. It’s important to reward them when they get it right. Give treats, praise, or extra attention every time they use their special spot. Switching up the toys and hiding new things once in a while can keep the area exciting, too.

Matty Garrett, greenspace director at the Wylde Center in Decatur, Georgia, shared with HGTV that “dog-hardy” plants like boxwoods, native azaleas, and monkey grass are great for areas where pets play. These plants tend to handle the wear from dogs better. Tough groundcovers can also be a good alternative to grass.

Also, don’t forget the importance of quality time with your pet. Daily walks, play sessions, and mental enrichment (like puzzle toys or scent games) can really cut down on boredom-driven digging. If your pup’s burning off that extra energy in healthy ways, they’re less likely to go after your flower beds. These little steps can make a big difference — and help keep both your pet and your garden in good shape.