Dad ‘Told Off’ by Rescue Dog for Digging in Backyard As He’s Banned

A dog was up in paws after seeing his dad doing the very thing he kept getting yelled at for: digging.

Emma Lawrence, known on TikTok as @elcreativecontent, heard her rescue dog barking outside and started following the sound to investigate why in the January 5 TikTok video. She found the dog, Flynn, sitting next to her dad as he was digging holes in the yard.

Digging is a big no-no, at least that’s what Flynn learned after he’s been “told off” plenty of times before. But now, right before his eyes, someone else was digging without any repercussions.

Flynn needed to set the record straight. He started barking at the dad. Flynn wanted to make sure he knew digging was frowned upon, but his protest wasn’t enough. The dad continued and Flynn stood back in disbelief.

“He howls quite a lot, but this was the first time he’s told someone off for digging,” the owner told Newsweek via TikTok.

Viewer Reactions

As of Wednesday, the TikTok video had about 36,600 views and 2,579 likes. Viewers flooded the comment section to defend Flynn’s name, as they couldn’t stand the hypocrisy.

“He’s saying, ‘C’mon now you have to be consistent with the no digging rule,'” said one TikTok user.

Another pointed out: “I think he might be concerned that he will be blamed for it.”

A third wrote: “He is disgusted by his double standards!”

How to Stop Dogs Digging

While digging holes is part of a dog’s natural instinct and behavior, it still frustrates owners after discovering their lawn is torn apart. Dogs might dig because they’re bored and need mental stimulation. Perhaps they’re seeking attention or simply trying to stash treasures. Owners hoping to stop the unwanted habit can try implementing the following tips from Better Vet.

1. Provide your dog with a designated digging area, such as a sandbox. This will give them an appropriate outlet for their digging instincts while keeping them away from areas you’d like to keep tidy.
2. To make the areas you don’t want your dog to dig less appealing, cover or fence off those areas. The Better Vet article suggested placing rocks or other obstacles in those areas that will, hopefully, discourage them from exploring.
3. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise both physically and mentally. A tired dog from exercise and playtime will be less likely to resort to digging because of boredom.
4. Try using positive reinforcement training. This training technique will redirect your dog’s behavior. They will be praised and rewarded when they refrain from digging, which will help solidify the desired actions you want them to do.

As it goes with all training, stay consistent and be patient. It will help them understand what is expected of them.

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