Dig deeper: Learn why dogs bury bones

If you’ve ever caught your dog proudly burying a bone in the garden or trotting inside with a dirt-streaked nose, you’ve probably wondered what’s behind it. This habit isn’t just cheeky behaviour, it’s a glimpse into their deep evolutionary instincts.

To help us dig deeper, we spoke with CANZ Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant Mat Ward (BSc MVS CCAB), who shares why dogs are driven to bury their treasures and how you can guide that natural behaviour in positive, dog-friendly ways.

Why do dogs bury bones?

Burying bones is an ancient behaviour that links back to a dog’s wild ancestors. Back then, food wasn’t guaranteed, so hiding leftovers was a clever survival tactic. According to Mat Ward, dogs still have that same instinct to protect valuable resources like bones or toys for later use, what he calls the “Viking loot instinct.”

Even though today’s dogs enjoy regular meals, that old impulse can resurface when they find something particularly tasty or special. By burying their “treasures,” dogs may be following deep-rooted instincts to keep their prize safe from scavengers or other pets.

The instinct behind digging

Digging serves a range of purposes beyond bone-burying. Mat Ward explains that it’s often a natural outlet for instinctive behaviours, not a sign of bad manners.

For some breeds, particularly terriers, digging satisfies a strong prey drive to chase and unearth small critters. On warmer days, dogs may dig to reach the cooler soil underneath, creating a comfy spot to lie down. Pregnant dogs might dig as part of nesting behaviour, preparing a safe den to give birth.

Digging can also be emotional. Ward says that stressed or anxious dogs may dig as a way to release tension and physical energy, a bit like how humans might pace or fidget when they’re wound up. And of course, sometimes digging is simply fun. For active or bored dogs, it’s an entertaining way to burn energy and keep busy.

Understanding the why behind your dog’s digging is the first step toward managing it.

How to protect your garden – gently

Before filling in yet another hole, it helps to know that scolding your dog won’t stop the digging. What does work is gently redirecting that behaviour in a positive, rewarding way.

Ward recommends providing an outlet that makes sense to your dog’s instincts, such as a dedicated dig-pit.

Think of it as a canine sandbox. Use untreated wooden sleepers or bricks to mark out the area, and fill it with sand, “as it's easy to shake off (rather than muddy paws coming inside) and can be moistened for extra fun or cooling.”

Once you’ve created the pit, show your dog how to use it. You can hide toys, treats, or chews beneath the surface, then encourage them to dig and discover their rewards. Over time, they’ll learn that this zone is the “goldmine,” while your veggie patch and flower beds stay safe.

If your dog still can’t resist the roses, you might consider using edging or low fencing to protect delicate spots while your dog learns new habits.

Safe vs unsafe bones: What you need to know

When your dog buries a bone, it’s important that what they’re hiding won’t harm them later on. Ward warns that some popular chews and bones can cause serious health issues.

Safe options include:

• Hard rubber chew toys: Durable, non-toxic options like Kongs can be stuffed with treats to keep your dog mentally engaged
• Edible chews: Bully sticks and other digestible chews offer chewing satisfaction without the danger of splintering

Keep in mind that broken teeth are a risk when the toy or object your dog is chewing is harder than their teeth. Press your fingernail into the surface. If you can't indent the toy with your fingernail, then it's too hard for your dog's teeth.

Avoid these unsafe options:

• Cooked bones: “Never give your dog cooked bones of any kind,” Ward says. “The cooking process makes bones brittle and prone to splintering,” which can lead to life-threatening injuries
• Rawhide chews: These can cause choking or digestive blockages and may contain harmful chemicals
• Deer antlers: Very hard and likely to chip or crack teeth
• Tennis balls: Great for fetch, but not for chewing. The fuzzy surface can wear down teeth, and the ball can break apart and be swallowed

Healthy ways to redirect digging behaviour

Stopping a dog from digging entirely isn’t realistic, nor fair. Instead, aim to give them healthy, rewarding alternatives. Here’s how to keep your pup (and your backyard) happy:

1. Regular walks, runs, playtime and general exercise help burn energy that might otherwise go into unwanted digging
2. Offer mental enrichment, this includes food puzzles, snuffle mats, and scent games to satisfy their need to forage and problem-solve
3. Refresh their dig-pit often. Keep it interesting by burying different treats or rotating toys
4. Provide shade and comfort. If your dog digs for cooling or comfort, ensure they have a shady rest area and fresh water
5. Digging can be a coping mechanism for stress. Look for what’s worrying your dog - changes at home, loneliness, or lack of stimulation - and adjust accordingly
6. Stay positive and avoid punishment. Instead, reward your dog when they dig in the right place or choose to relax instead

Digging is part of a dog’s natural expression and a way to stay mentally and physically balanced. By understanding what drives this behaviour and giving your pet positive outlets, you can protect your garden without stifling their instincts.

As our friend Mat reminds us, providing a space where your dog can dig freely helps them stay happy and fulfilled and keeps your flower beds intact.

Now that you understand why dogs bury their bones, consider keeping them happy and protected. SPCA Pet Insurance helps cover unexpected vet visits, so you can focus on the fun, and the digging!

Broken teeth are a risk when the thing the dog is chewing is harder than their teeth. Extremely hard chews can break or damage your dog’s teeth. Press your fingernail into the surface. If you can't indent the toy with your fingernail, then it's too hard for your dog's teeth.