Dog-Proofing Your Garden: Digging, Plant Choices, and Compromise

Stop the Digging

Dogs dig instinctively. Fill holes with bricks and dirt — scraping claws on bricks discourages repeat digging. For lawn destruction, bury chicken wire deep and lay sod over it (makes future planting hard). Cover persistent digging spots with brick squares topped by decorative planters.

Dog-Resistant Plants

Herbs and pungent flowers release scent when trampled — a silver lining. Small-thorned bushes (barberry, hollies) deter some dogs. Avoid long, sharp thorns (yucca) that could injure eyes. Uncomfortable mulch like pinecones discourages even determined dogs.

Compromise: Share the Yard

Turn the dog's favorite path into a decorative walkway lined with raised beds or ornamental fencing. Give the dog a private, partially shaded area with a sandpit for digging, safe toys, and a flat-roof doghouse for surveying. If you have a stockade fence, leave a small window for viewing. Experiment to find what works — keep your sense of humor.