Q: I have two dogs, a Corgi and a Lab/Basset mix, both of whom are diggers. They dig by the fence, patio, in the middle of the yard, and next to the house. How can I stop this habit? They are crated inside during the day. It is only when we are home and they go outside that they dig. I am desperate because I want to sell my house in the spring so I am going to have to re-sod the yard and I don't want them to dig it up. Also when I move into a new home, I want this behavior stopped.

A: The fastest and most sure solution for you to be ready to sell your house would be to do with your dogs what I do with mine: supervise them the entire time they are outdoors. While out there with them, re-direct every movement toward digging behavior into some other game, such as fetching a ball.

Digging is a very normal behavior for dogs that would be important in the wild for making a den to shelter pups, and for storing and retrieving food. Breeders often report digging behavior in expectant female dogs as they near the time for whelping. When you are not watching the dogs, it's unlikely you'll be able to keep them from doing a behavior that is so natural to them, and now has become habit.

What you might manage to do in your new home is create a special area for your dogs to dig in. Then, using your supervision, you take them to that area every time they start to dig, and praise them for digging there. The area needs clear boundaries, such as a small fence. To encourage the dogs to dig there, bury treats and toys for them in that area.

You could do the special digging area in your home now, too, if you don't mind having one area dedicated to this purpose when prospective buyers view your home in the spring. Either way, supervising the dogs the entire time they are outdoors will be necessary, at least until they are completely in the habit of digging in the new place.