A. Digging is a normal behavior for dogs but it can be made worse by boredom, stress, underground critters like moles or voles, heat, or in rare cases, a diet deficiency. Knowing this doesn't mean you have to live with those myriad holes in your yard!

Here are a few things you can try to persuade your digging dog not to excavate your lawn. Keep in mind that all dogs are different, so what works on one dog may not work on another. A combination of training, prevention and safe deterrents is the most effective approach.

• Diet is an important factor. A healthy, balanced diet can assist in reducing the digging. Talk to your veterinarian for advice on nutrition.
  

• A busy dog is a happy dog. Keep yours mentally stimulated with a variety of dog toys that he can play with independently. Food-based puzzle toys, like Kongs and Buster Cubes, are practically indestructible and don't require a human being to be used effectively, like a ball or a rope tug.

• Try diverting your dog to an acceptable place to do his digging. Create a sandbox in a child's wading pool. Fill it with dirt, heavy duty dog toys, and some biscuits. Guide your dog there repeatedly so he gets the message. Be sure to locate the sandbox in a shady place where he can lie in it to cool off.

• To deter your dog from the garden, you may need to fence to keep the most determined canines from exploring your vegetable seedlings. A spray of Bitter Apple over the ground can be effective with some dogs, too.

• Don't reprimand your dog when you discover the holes. He won't connect your scolding with his digging, and you could inadvertently be discouraging him from coming when called.