How To Puppy Proof Your Drip Irrigation System
Dec 12th 2024
Drip irrigation is excellent for keeping your garden vibrant through the growing season. Unfortunately, playful pups may want to get in on the action and play with your irrigation system: dogs, but puppies especially, like to explore the world by putting everything in their mouth. Sharp teeth and flexible drip irrigation lines don't mix very well. If you are struggling with your dog damaging your drip irrigation line, read on to figure out how to puppy proof your system.
Prevention Is Key
Dogs are evolutionarily hardwired to enjoy digging. This fact doesn't help much when they are digging up your irrigation line. The best way to avoid damage to your line is to prevent your dog from having access. Start with concealing all the exposed irrigation lines and emitter heads. Blocking your pup's access to areas with irrigation lines using garden furniture or burying the line that can't reach the irrigation system are possible options. You may consider putting chicken wire under the mulch for sneaky dogs to prevent access to buried lines. If your dog cannot reach the irrigation line, he will need to direct his attention elsewhere.
Training Acceptable Dog Zones
One way to keep your dog out of your irrigation line is to train it where to and not to go in the garden. Though this step could take time, your efforts will certainly pay off. Identify two zones in your garden, one where your dog is welcome and one where you would prefer your dog to avoid. Put your pup on a leash and praise him extensively while exploring the first zone. As soon as he approaches the second zone, stop giving praise or attention and gently pull the leash to direct your dog away from the exclusion zone. Eventually, your pup will create beneficial associations by staying in the pup-friendly zone and avoiding the area you prefer he does not enter.
Reward Positive Behavior
Another training route is to pick a spot in the yard where your dog can dig. Keep him on a leash in the desired area and watch for any signs of digging. Once your dog begins to dig, say "dig" and reward him with a treat. This will teach your dog the positive association of digging in the correct location.
Keep Your Dog Tired
A great way to prevent digging is to keep your dog so tired he doesn't have the energy to dig in the first place. This can be accomplished by going for long walks every morning and evening, going to the dog park, or playing fetch with your pup.
Try A Natural Repellant
Though dogs enjoy digging things up, an unpleasant experience will remind them to avoid certain things. Regularly spraying your irrigation lines with an apple cider vinegar spray or with a cayenne pepper and water mix can help deter your dog from repeated digging at irrigation lines. Many companies also sell specific sprays made to discourage pets from digging where you don't want them to.
How To Repair a Damaged Drip Irrigation System
If prevention is off the table because your dog has already damaged your irrigation system, you can certainly fix it. DripWorks offers many different repair kits for drip irrigation lines, depending on what kind you already have. Whether you have drip tape, a soaker dripline, or a regular drip irrigation line, DripWorks has you covered. Repair kits include fittings, goof plugs, emitters, and more. If a dog has damaged an emitter, it will likely need to be replaced. However, if your pup has damaged a part of the drip tubing line, you can just replace the part that is broken. For more detailed information about how to fix damaged tubes, visit How to Repair Drip Irrigation Tubing.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, protecting your irrigation system from your curious puppy doesn't have to be daunting. By implementing a combination of physical barriers, training techniques, and regular maintenance, you can ensure your garden and furry friend thrive. Remember, consistency is key. Reinforcing positive behaviors and providing appropriate outlets for your puppy's energy will go a long way in keeping them away from your irrigation setup. With these strategies in place, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your irrigation system is safe while also giving your puppy the freedom to explore their surroundings.