How to Stop a German Shorthaired Pointer From Digging
German Shorthaired Pointers are natural diggers with exceptional energy levels and intelligence that need purposeful outlets. Without adequate stimulation, these athletic and eager-to-please dogs often resort to digging as a way to burn energy, cool off, or satisfy their hunting instincts—a behavior that can quickly damage your yard. The good news is that GSPs are highly trainable and respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement when given clear alternatives. By understanding that digging stems from their breed's inherent drive rather than misbehavior, you can redirect this instinct into acceptable channels while meeting their 90-minute daily exercise requirement. This guide will help you transform destructive digging into constructive play and mental engagement.
Step-by-step
- 1
Increase Daily Exercise and Mental Stimulation
GSPs require at least 90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise—running, swimming, or retrieving games that truly tire them out. Beyond physical activity, incorporate puzzle toys, scent work, and obedience training to engage their intelligent minds. A mentally and physically satisfied GSP is far less likely to dig out of boredom or excess energy.
- 2
Create a Designated Digging Zone
Set up a specific area in your yard—a sandbox, raised bed, or loose soil patch—where digging is explicitly allowed and encouraged. Make this zone more appealing than the rest of the yard by burying toys, treats, and bones there. Reward your GSP enthusiastically whenever they dig in the designated zone, reinforcing that this is the correct outlet for their digging drive.
- 3
Redirect Digging Attempts in Real-Time
When you catch your GSP digging in forbidden areas, calmly interrupt them and immediately redirect to the designated zone with an enthusiastic "Dig here!" command. Reward them generously when they dig there instead. This positive redirection leverages their eager-to-please temperament and teaches them exactly where their energy should go.
- 4
Manage Access and Remove Triggers
Supervise your GSP's yard time closely, especially during their first weeks of training. Identify specific triggers—heat, stress, or certain areas—and either minimize exposure or increase engagement in those times. Consider using a long line or creating a confined training area where you can actively manage and reward good choices.
- 5
Teach Alternative Behaviors on Cue
Train competing behaviors like "play fetch," "find it" (scent games), or "settle" using treats and praise. When your GSP's energy rises and digging urges emerge, redirect to one of these trained behaviors instead. GSPs' high trainability makes them quick learners of multiple commands and alternative outlets.
- 6
Maintain Consistency and Patience
Stick to your training plan even when progress seems slow—GSPs thrive on consistent routines and clear expectations. Celebrate small wins, and remember that their natural digging drive won't disappear entirely; you're channeling it productively. Within 2-4 weeks of consistent redirection, most GSPs grasp where digging is acceptable.
Pro tips
- Pair digging training with at least one intense fetch or swimming session daily—burning that 5/5 energy level is non-negotiable for success.
- Use scent work in the designated zone (bury treats or toys) to tap into the GSP's natural hunting drive and make that zone irresistibly appealing.
- If your GSP escapes or shows signs of destructive boredom, assume exercise is still insufficient—these dogs need jobs and activity, not just permission to dig.
Frequently asked questions
My GSP digs mainly in the heat—should I just keep them indoors all summer?+
No. Instead, address the root: digging in heat often signals an unmet exercise need or a dog seeking a cool spot. Ensure vigorous exercise during cooler morning/evening hours, provide shade and water, and redirect digging urges to the designated zone where they can cool themselves. GSPs need outdoor time despite heat; manage it smartly and meet their energy needs.
How long before my GSP stops trying to dig in forbidden areas?+
With consistent redirection and a properly rewarded designated zone, most GSPs show significant improvement within 2-4 weeks. Their high trainability works in your favor, but you must be consistent. If digging resurfaces, it typically signals unmet exercise needs—increase activity before assuming the training isn't working.
What if my GSP keeps escaping by digging under the fence?+
This is a serious concern with high-energy GSPs. In addition to redirection training, install barrier fencing (bury chicken wire or hardware cloth along fence lines), ensure your dog meets the full 90-minute daily exercise requirement, and never leave them unsupervised for extended periods. Escaping also suggests they need more mental engagement—add training sessions and puzzle toys.
Can I punish my GSP for digging in the wrong spots?+
No. Punishment damages your relationship and rarely stops the behavior—it just teaches your GSP to dig when you're not watching. GSPs are eager-to-please and respond brilliantly to positive reinforcement instead. Redirect, reward, and increase exercise. Punishment will backfire with this breed's sensitive, friendly temperament.