If you keep your dog in a fenced in backyard, chances are that he’ll try to dig his way to freedom. Dogs often dig under a gate, since there’s has a gap under it to allow the gate to swing open.

To prevent your dog from digging under a gate:

  • Cut a pressure treated 4” x 4” landscape timber so it fits tightly between the gate posts.
  • Dig a trench across the gate opening as deep as the thickness of the timber.
  • Position the timber in the gate opening so there is just a small gap between the timber and bottom of the gate.
  • Secure the timber in place by toenailing galvanized nails or screws through each end of the timber into the gate posts.
  • Backfill the trench with dirt so the ground is level.

Watch the video above to find out more.


Further Information

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Joe Truini

Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

Learn More