This German Shepherd Has the Noisiest Way of Helping Dad Dig Holes in the Yard
Most dog parents dread the moment they discover their dog has taken up digging, but Tommy the German Shepherd's dad found a way to turn it into a team effort. Tommy genuinely loves helping dig holes in the yard, and in this video, his dad decides to put his dog's talents to very good use.
Make sure your sound is on for this one because Tommy doesn't just dig, he sings while he works! The video opens with Tommy supervising Dad's progress before being given the signal that it's his turn, and what happens next is guaranteed to make you smile.
In the caption, Tommy's parents shared why they encourage letting him dig. "Digging is such a natural behavior in dogs, and instead of correcting it, we put it on cue. It comes in truly handy sometimes, haha! Tommy even sings his own songs when digging! We are so lucky to have him around!"
Teaching your dog to dig on cue is genius! And it doesn't have to be in the dirt. You can use a blanket indoors to hide treats. The American Kennel Club shares step-by-step instructions on how to teach your dog to dig on cue here.
Related: Giant Newfie Helps Tiny Grandma Garden in the Cutest Way Possible
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People Can't Get Enough of Tommy's Digging Duties, and Honestly, Neither Can We
Viewers left hundreds of comments about Tommy the German Shepherd's work ethic, and some of them were funny. Like @lana, who pointed out, "He yaps a lot but gets the job done." Tommy's mom replied, "I like to imagine he sings some sort of German hymn while working LOL!"
Another commenter joked, "'Dig, dig!' Tommy: 'I'm going as fast as I CAN!!!!'" @Purple Bunny added, "What the h*ll does it look like I'm doing!?!" German Shepherds are working dogs after all!
Why Do Dogs Dig?
Dogs love to dig holes in the yard, and as Tommy's parents mentioned, it comes naturally to them.
According to the American Kennel Club, digging is deeply ingrained in many breeds, particularly hunting and working dogs like German Shepherds. And some dogs dig simply because they're natural escape artists looking for a way out of the yard!
It's also a great way to relieve boredom and, often, stress. We might veg out on the couch when we're bored, but for dogs, digging offers both mental and physical stimulation. Just imagine all the smells when the dirt starts flying! The cool earth can also help with temperature regulation on hot days, and the hole makes the perfect hiding spot for a favorite bone or snack.
If you have a digger at home, why not set up an area in your yard where you allow them to dig rather than fighting the behavior entirely? The Oregon Humane Society suggests using a sandbox or kiddie pool filled with loose dirt, sand, or a mixture of both. Set it up in a corner of your yard and encourage your dog to use it. It's a simple solution that keeps both the yard and your dog happy!
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This story was originally published April 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM.