It would seem obvious....you either need to fence off the garden, or
restrain/train the dog. Unless they are particularly stupid (happens
sometimes) most dogs can be trained to NOT dig in the forbidden spot,
especially if you give them an approved area. It takes time and repetition.
When he starts to dig in the wrong spot, tell him NO firmly but not nastily
(no smacking), take him to the approved area, encourage him to dig there,
and praise him immediately when he does. You can reinforce the praise with
a small food treat, especially at first. With a mature dog that you are
well bonded with, you praise should eventually be reward enough.

You can make it easier for the dog to understand where he is not allowed by
putting in place some visual cues; a simple arrangement of stakes and string
around the garden perimeter will let him know where the boundaries are.

You must be consistent. Do this routine every single time he strays, and
don't let him out unsupervised. A dog that has been trained in basic
obedience will pick up on this new training more rapidly. If you continue
to have trouble, an obedience class can be a good experience for both you
and the dog. Dogs really are much happier when they understand and are able
to meet your expectations, and a well trained dog is a pleasure to have
around.

Good luck in your endeavors with both the dog and the garden.

Sue

Zone 6, Southcentral PA

"cookw" wrote in message
om...
i am needing help with a very large garden. we have a very large dog
who is digging up the whole place. ANY SUGGESTIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!