Do you have a new puppy or dog in your home? The destructive power of a young dog can be a source of great frustration. Why are dogs such habitual chewers? The simple answer may be that dogs and puppies love to explore things with their mouths. Sometimes they chew because they're bored and have nothing better to do. Chewing can also be a sign of anxiety, extreme boredom, loneliness, and a sign of frustration. It can also result from an overall high energy level. Chewing can also be a sign of separation anxiety, where your dog becomes anxious when you leave home.
The first step to stopping your dog's chewing habit is to look at your dog's living environment and see if there are any factors that could be contributing to his chewing such as loneliness or separation anxiety.
If your dog appears to be suffering from boredom, there are a variety of interesting dog toys on the market you can give him as a substitute for your shoes. Be careful not to give him a rawhide bone or other toy that could lodge in his throat when you're not at home. Also, don't give your dog anything to chew that resembles an item you're trying to keep him away from. In other words, don't give him old shoes or pillows as chew toys. You want him to know these items are off limits. Some good suggestions would be sturdy rubber dog bones, rubber balls, and teething rings.
One idea for keeping your dog entertained is to buy a hollow rubber bone and put peanut butter in the middle. He'll enjoy licking the bone for hours to get every last taste of the peanut butter. If you should catch your dog chewing on an item that's off limits to him, quickly take it away and replace it with one of his toys. When he starts to chew on the item you've given him, reward him with praise and attention.
Another way to reduce chewing is to help your dog release some of that pent up energy with long walks and play time. Before you leave home for work, spend some quality time with your dog. This will also help to reduce separation anxiety and relieve boredom.
If your dog is a chewer, you should take steps to make your furniture and other household items less accessible and appealing. Be sure to pick up any shoes, pillows, and other objects that could serve as temptations for your dog. If chewing on the furniture is a problem, purchase bitter apple spray from your pet store and spray it on your furniture. You can also use white vinegar as a substitute.
If your dog's chewing problem fails to resolve, you may need to consider housing your dog in a carrier when you're not at home. Dogs often feel more comfortable when they're enclosed in a secure space. Be sure to leave a safe chew toy and water for your dog when you leave. Exercise him before you leave home and immediately when you return.
Hopefully, by taking these steps, your dog's chewing habit will resolve quickly.
