Hi XXXXXXXXXXXXX~
How old is the carpeting in your house?Does he do it only on the carpet in a specific area of your home, or any carpeted areas?
The carpet is only three years old and we had it steam cleaned about nine months ago.
He does it on all the carpeted areas in our home.
He only does it on the carpet in my home. I have taken him to my mother's (she also has dogs) and he doesn't do anything there.
He does it whenever he is on the carpet, morning, noon and night...but he doesn't do it when he is in his crate on the carpet. It has a plastic bottom with a blanket in it.
Okay...thanks for bearing with all my questions.
As someone who does a great deal of pitbull rehabilitation, I can completely understand how crazy it can make an owner when these tenacious little terriers develop a behavior that gets out of control. It sounds to me like maybe this is what is going on with your little guy.
It sounds to me as if maybe your pup used his blanket or some other carpeting (possibly at the shelter where he was) as a way to entertain himself...and was never told to stop that particular behavior. Since he was never stopped...he just continues to do it because he doesn't know that he shouldn't.
If he started acting this way in the shelter, then I'd wager that the behavior may have begun out of bordome or anxiety but now it is a habit. It is best to ignore negative behavior and reward for good behavior. When your dog does something you don't appreciate, try to distract him and reward for good behavior. Basic training on a consistant basis is important, because it bonds you and your dog together and establishes you as the leader of the pack, thereby earning your dog's respect.If the carpet digging stems from boredom, your dog will benefit by getting plenty of daily exercise and having "fun" and "stimulating" projects to occupy his time.Consider purchasing a doggie toy that has openings in it to hide peanut butter or small pieces of kibble. Your dog will have to "work" to get the yummy treats out.
If he enjoys the company of other dogs, consider adopting a playmate for him.
When possible, include him in your family "pack." Walk him, talk to him, brush him and allow him to spend quality time with your family. Isolating him will only worsen the problem.
Consider a "diversion tactic" by giving him something more appropriate to do. Pet product retailers offer a variety of hard-rubber dog toys, such as Kongs that are virtually indestructible. These toys are made specifically for the dog who loves, or needs, to chew.
Finally, talk to a professional behaviorist and consult your veterinarian. A behaviorist can assist you with training issues. Your veterinarian should do a complete examination and blood work to rule out a possible underlying medical condition. In severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to reduce your pet's anxiety level.
I hope this helps.
Certified Veterinary Technician
Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology. State and Nationally certified.
He didn't have a blanket or carpet or anything else at the animal shelter. He was on solid concrete for 10 days.
He only started the behavior after the respiratory infection cleared up and he could smell again. So I don't think it is totally a behavior problem, I think there is something in the carpet he can now smell and it is driving him crazy.
He is scheduled to start obedience on Thursday. (Again, we had to wait until he was no longer contagious to the other dogs in class).
He can not be distracted with toys or food or activity or anything. He is extremely focused and gets in a zone. The only way to get him to stop is to get him by the collar and move him to another area of the house, off the carpet.