5 Best Dog Digging Repellents

Peter Armani | 13-01-2026

Dog digging can quickly turn a tidy yard into a patchwork of holes and muddy spots. Whether you’re dealing with persistent digging in flower beds or along fences, finding the right repellent can help protect your outdoor spaces. This guide compares several types of dog digging repellents, highlighting practical features and real-world usability to help you choose a solution that fits your needs.

Editor's Choice
Nature’s MACE Dog MACE Granular Dog Repellent (2.5 lb)
Nature’s MACE Dog MACE Granular Dog Repellent (2.5 lb)
Premium Pick
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (Gallon)
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (Gallon)
Budget Pick
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (32oz)
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (32oz)

Top 5 Dog Digging Repellents

We researched and compared the top products in the Dog Digging Repellents category to provide you with these recommendations.

1. Nature’s MACE Dog MACE Granular Dog Repellent (2.5 lb)

Granular Outdoor Coverage
Nature’s MACE Dog MACE Granular Dog Repellent (2.5 lb)
9.8

Nature's Mace

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This granular repellent is designed for outdoor use, offering a straightforward way to treat lawns, gardens, and pathways. The granules feel dry to the touch and are easy to spread by hand or with a garden spreader. Ideal for protecting specific spots where dogs tend to dig, it's a practical choice for ongoing yard maintenance.

What We Like:

  • Covers large outdoor areas
  • Scent-based deterrent for training
  • Simple application process
  • Safe for kids, pets, and plants
  • Works year-round with reapplication

What Could Be Improved:

  • Needs reapplication after heavy rain
  • May require frequent use at first

2. Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (Gallon)

Large Area Spray
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (Gallon)

This ready-to-use spray comes in a gallon jug with a trigger sprayer, making it convenient for treating big yards and fence lines. The formula uses natural oils to create a scent barrier, helping discourage digging in targeted areas. It's designed to bond to soil and surfaces, providing a practical option for busy homeowners.

What We Like:

  • Covers expansive outdoor spaces
  • Rain-guard technology for longer effect
  • Quick and easy to apply
  • Pet-friendly, plant-safe ingredients
  • No mixing required

What Could Be Improved:

  • Scent may be strong for some users
  • May need targeted reapplication in high-traffic spots

3. Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (32oz)

Fast Spot Treatment
Zone Protects No Holes Digging Dog Prevention Spray (32oz)

This spray is designed for quick application around digging hotspots like flower beds or fence lines. The 32oz trigger bottle is easy to handle, making it suitable for spot treatments or smaller yards. The plant-based oils create a scent barrier to help retrain digging behavior without harsh chemicals.

What We Like:

  • Convenient for spot applications
  • Plant-based, pet-safe formula
  • Lasts through rain and watering
  • Simple spray-and-go use

What Could Be Improved:

  • Smaller bottle may not suit large yards
  • Some dogs may require repeated applications

4. Nature’s MACE Dog Mace Repellent Spray

Pet Safe Formula
Nature’s MACE Dog Mace Repellent Spray
8.7

Nature's Mace

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This lightweight spray is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making it versatile for households with multiple problem areas. The plant-based formula is gentle on surfaces and safe around children and pets. It's a practical choice for training and correcting unwanted digging or marking behaviors.

What We Like:

  • Safe for kids, pets, and plants
  • Works indoors and outdoors
  • Plant-based ingredients
  • Helps with training and behavior correction

What Could Be Improved:

  • Requires consistent reapplication
  • May need more frequent use in rainy weather

5. Nature’s MACE Dog Mace Granular Dog Repellent (6 lb)

Long Lasting Formula
Nature’s MACE Dog Mace Granular Dog Repellent (6 lb)
8.7

Nature's Mace

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This larger pack of granular repellent is designed for ongoing outdoor protection in bigger yards or gardens. The granules are easy to spread and rely on essential oils to create a scent barrier, making it a practical option for families wanting a natural approach. Regular use helps reinforce boundaries and discourage repeat digging.

What We Like:

  • Large quantity for extended coverage
  • Uses essential oils for scent deterrence
  • Safe for use around families and pets
  • Suitable for year-round application

What Could Be Improved:

  • Needs reapplication after rain or mowing
  • Scent may be noticeable initially

How to Choose Dog Digging Repellents

Dog digging repellents are typically used by homeowners looking to protect lawns, gardens, or patios. The right choice depends on the specific problem areas and how often you need to reapply the solution.

Granules vs. Sprays

Granules are best for treating larger areas or creating boundaries, while sprays are ideal for quick touch-ups or smaller problem zones.

Safety and Ingredients

Most repellents use essential oils or plant extracts. Always follow directions for safe use around family and pets.

Application and Maintenance

Some formulas bond to soil for longer protection, while others may require more frequent reapplication, especially after rain.

Coverage Area

Getting the right size helps avoid running out or overusing the product.

Training and Behavior

Repellents can help retrain dogs, but pairing them with supervision and training usually yields the best outcome.

FAQ For Dog Digging Repellents

1. How do dog digging repellents work?

Dog digging repellents typically use scent or taste aversion to make treated areas less appealing for digging. Most formulas rely on natural oils or plant-based ingredients that dogs find unpleasant.

2. Are these repellents safe for pets and children?

Most dog digging repellents are formulated to be safe around pets and children when used as directed. Always check the product label for specific safety information.

3. How often do I need to reapply a digging repellent?

Reapplication frequency varies by product and weather conditions. Many require reapplication after heavy rain, watering, or mowing to maintain effectiveness.

4. Can I use digging repellents indoors?

Some spray repellents are suitable for indoor use, especially for discouraging digging or marking in specific spots. Always verify the label to ensure indoor safety.

5. Will repellents stop all dogs from digging?

Repellents can help reduce digging behavior, but results may vary depending on the dog's motivation and consistency of use. Combining repellents with training often yields better results.
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Peter Armani

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