Dog-repellant Garden Plants? - Knowledgebase Question

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Question by brooksgab
October 17, 1999
How do I keep my dog from digging in the garden? Is there a dog-repellant garden plant that I can put in?


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Answer from NGA
October 17, 1999
I'm not aware of any plants that act specifically as dog repellants. The best solution for the long-term is to patiently train the dog not to dig. Dogs love to please us, and they are easy to train. Or, you could install at least a temporary physical barrier. In the short-term, repellents would seem to be the only solution. There are a number of commercial products available (Hinder or Ropel), but they do need to be applied and reapplied according to the label instructions in order to be effective. Most large garden centers stock a variety of them or try Gardener's Supply Company (www.gardeners.com). Perhaps one or another will work for you.

Here is a recipe for a home-made dog repellent which is intended to keep them from digging but might help in this case. Unfortunately it sounds rather smelly.

Mix into a quart of water: one clove garlic (chopped), one onion (chopped), 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce, 1 Tablespoon cayenne pepper or chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon dishwashing liquid. Dribble around the area to be protected (don't get it on the plants themselves). Be sure to wear rubber gloves and be careful not to get this in your eyes or on your skin. Good luck!

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