One diggity dog

Q: I have a 12-year-old cocker spaniel. “Sam” is the only dog I’ve owned in 65 years that will dig a small hole in the grass — I presume, so he can sit in it. I am constantly replacing the topsoil in my yard. Why does he do this? He’s also the only dog I’ve known to get warts. — Jo F., Denver

A: Why does he do this? No one knows, exactly. Many dogs — most, really — instinctively dig. Some, like certain breeds of terrier, were bred specifically to dig for rodents. Others just like to kick up the dirt and roll around, or bury a favorite bone.

It’s unlikely that you will be able to completely stop Sam’s digging, nor would you want to — it’s fun and natural. But replacing topsoil is absolutely no fun, so a compromise is in order.

How about setting aside a few feet of space in the yard just for Sam to dig in? If you’re worried about damage around a fenced area, perhaps filling a raised bed with packed soil will do. To get him to use it, bury treats and toys throughout the area for him to find, and accompany him on all his forays outside to guide him away from digging at the grass and toward the dig area.

The warts are another issue. First, they may not really be warts; they could be lipomas (small masses just under the skin) or sebaceous cysts caused by plugged oil glands. All of these are seen more commonly in older cocker spaniels than in other breeds. They should be checked out by your pet’s veterinarian, who may have a tissue biopsy done to make sure they are benign. If the bumps or warts cause itching or discomfort, the vet can treat these symptoms.