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An older man in a fishing vest kneels to plant a tomato seedling as a yellow Labrador digs in the soil beside him. 21 / 40

Grandpa Was Planting Tomatoes. The Lab Decided the Garden Needed More Holes.

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Garden day is in full swing. Grandpa Gus kneels in the freshly turned soil, gently pressing a young tomato seedling into place with careful, practiced fingers. Just inches away, Sunny has decided to be helpful in her own way. Her front paws are deep in the dirt, a fresh hole is forming beneath her, and her mouth hangs open in a delighted, muddy grin. Grandpa peers over at her with the patient expression of a man who has seen this before. Behind them, stakes mark a neat row of seedlings, pots and garden gloves are scattered across the beds, and a wooden fence keeps it all tucked away.

Digging is a completely natural dog behavior. Dogs dig to cool off, to bury treasures, to chase interesting smells, or simply because it is fun, and soft, freshly worked garden soil is very tempting. If you want to protect your beds, try giving your dog a designated digging spot, like a corner of the yard or a sandbox where toys are buried for them to find, and praise them for using it. Keep an eye on what is in the garden, too. Tomato plants, especially the leaves, stems, and unripe green fruit, can upset a dog's stomach, and many fertilizers, mulches, and pest products can be harmful if eaten. Store garden supplies securely and talk to your vet if your dog swallows something questionable.

Grandpa may need to replant a seedling or two. But when your gardening partner is this enthusiastic, a little extra digging is part of the deal.

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