How to Keep Neighbor’s Dog from Digging Under My Fence?

It can be quite a complicated situation to have to deal with the neighbor’s pet from digging under your fence. For dogs, physical fences made of wood, metal, or other materials just present an obstacle. They love to dig under them to find a way out or even jump over them. Since they aren’t your own dog, you cannot possibly train them or stop personally.

One important thing to remember is that dogs dig out of comfort or instinct. Hence, the situation needs to be handled in a caring way towards the dog and understanding its mindset.

Can I Give Treats to Keep Neighbor’s Dog from Digging Under My Fence?

We don’t recommend giving your neighbor’s dog anything to get them to stop digging under your fence. Giving them treats to try and train them can backfire if they have any allergies. It can also interfere with the training that its owner may be giving them. It might even make them more inclined to dig under the fence to come see you for treats.

Am I Allowed to Use Pepper Spray on My Dog?

Pepper spray should only be used on dogs in every few situations. If the dog is digging around, it is only doing it out of instinct or comfort. It doesn’t have any intention of harming your fence or lawn. While it can be extremely frustrating to deal with, it doesn’t justify the use of pepper spray on the dog at all.

Pepper sprays can cause intense distress and suffering to them. It causes swelling, irritation, and pain in and around the eyes for over an hour. Their trust in people and even their social interactions with people and other dogs might get negatively affected. They might whine or be completely immobilized for some time too.

In 46 states, spraying pepper spray on dogs is also classified under animal abuse with a fine of $1,000, up to 400 days of community service, and up to 4 years in jail.

How to Keep Neighbor’s Dog from Digging Under My Fence?

One temporary solution is to build an even deeper fence. However, that can also backfire since it is a costly solution and requires you to execute a whole renovation project. It can be better to try and build an invisible fence that dogs don’t dig under. If the problem continues, you can also discuss it with your neighbor. You can report it to the police and let them deal with it. But we do recommend giving your neighbor a little time since training does take some time.