Chis do enjoy hunting and chasing after little critters, such as the favored lizard. If a critter goes down a hole, the Chi may attempt to go after it by digging. Not having buckets for paws (as some breeds do), the Chihuahua is not very efficient at moving large amounts of earth in short periods of time. Beware, however, the determined Chi that's found a vole underground or suspects a lizard lair. Given time, she can dig. Chis may also dig to unearth cool ground to lie in on a hot day or bury a favorite chew or toy for later. Still other Chis will dig out of sheer boredom.

In working with problem diggers, it is important to determine why the Chi is digging. If there's no reason you can see for the digging, exercise your Chihuahua more. Play more games, and get her active. She is likely digging because she's looking for something to do.

If your Chi is running after critters and is digging in an area of your yard where you don't want holes, make this area inaccessible to your Chi. You can use temporary or permanent fencing to keep your Chi out.

If it's burying and digging things back up that your Chi likes, consider blocking off part of your yard and only giving your Chi access to a small area that has a digging pit in it. Dig out a two- by three-foot area approximately eight to twelve inches deep, and fill it with sand. Put a couple of your Chi's favorite toys partially into the pit and reward your dog with praise and a treat when she digs the toys out. It doesn't take long for a dog to figure out that this digging pit can be a lot of fun.