How to Stop a Dog From Chewing

Whether or not a puppy engages in destructive chewing behaviors is usually a matter of individual preference. There are some dogs who’ve this innate need to chew away from sheer pleasure, while others have zero need whatsoever unless they may be driven by mere boredom.

When you hear the saying ‘destructive chewing’ it may seem to become a bit redundant. After all, isn’t all chewing destructive? A dog has strong jaws with sharp teeth. Anything they decide to munch on won’ doubt show signs and symptoms of destruction. So, really when I use the words ‘destructive chewing,’ what I really mean is inappropriate chewing. This is the kind that is targeted on your property and things for the home instead of their toys or bones. If you’re dog is exhibiting these behaviors, you most surely have dog chewing problems.

The Three Reasons Dogs Chew

Pleasure – Dogs naturally contain the need to chew. Not only is it fun, but it can be rewarding when they are chewing on something tastes particularly good.

Comfort – A dog who’s nervous, bored and even lonely might use chewing being an outlet for their emotions. The repetition from chewing is soothing in their mind, the same as comfort food soothes humans.

Boredom – A dog who isn’t exercised enough will use chewing as a way to burn nervous energy. It gives them something to do.

How to Stop a Dog From Chewing

You can most certainly teach your pet not to chew on your things. All you need to perform is put in most good old fashioned effort.

Dog Proof Your Home – You should start by dog proofing your property. What does this mean? It’s rather simple. Gather all the tasks you won’t want to will be found in your canine’s mouth, and earn it inaccessible for many years. Put them inside a closet, in high places, drawers, etc. Make sure you look at the size of your pet along with their agility. Will she be able to achieve the item throughout her hind legs? Can your canine climb, or jump towards the object? Some common objects that dogs love to chew on are books, glasses, clothes, shoes, garbage bags, cameras, cell phones as well as remotes. Of course just about any food should be put away. Counter tops might not be a secure place if your dog is really a jumper. Containers are the most useful best option.

Prevention – If you’ll be able to prevent your pet from chewing things initially, it’ll make things much easier. The more times she can get hold of a chair leg, or shoe to chew on, a lot more it will likely be to stop her behavior. Realistically, this could mean confining her to a dog-proofed area of the home and soon you are sure she understands the guidelines.

Make the Boundaries Clear – Don’t give your canine an old shoe to chew on, or t-shirt to tug apart. The truth is, she won’t have the ability to differentiate between a vintage shoe, along with the nice new pair inside your closet. This will only set her up for failure and/or confusion.

Toys, Toys, Toys – Make sure you have plenty of appropriate chewing objects around. If your pet’s environment is void of fun, attractive toys she’ll undoubtedly target your property. Keep in mind the requirement to chew is natural, especially if they are a teenager (under several years) or perhaps a puppy (under twelve months). Try buying a good amount and giving her 3 toys at any given time. Rotate them around and it will keep things interesting on her.

Actively Supervise – While it might appear easier to keep her penned up inside a crate, or even in the yard, it’s not just boring and detrimental to your puppy, but also for yourself. You want to communicate with your pet, right? She’ll only have the ability to learn should you spend more time her and permit her to explore boundaries. If she crosses a boundary, you’ll be able to correct her behavior and she will consequently learn not to perform that down the road. If she stays locked up, she’ll never get the chance to create mistakes.

Catch Them in the Act – If you catch her chewing something inappropriate, interrupt her by making a loud, unpleasant noise. You can clap the hands, or tell her firmly ‘No!’ Immediately after the noise, be sure you offer her a proper alternative (rawhide, chew toy). Once she starts chewing on the appropriate object, praise her. She will set out to equate chewing her toys with praise from you. Anything else would mean trouble, or noises.

Be Positive

Remember to be positive and realistic expectations. Both you and your puppy have imperfections high could possibly be an incident or two where each of your prized possessions will probably be damaged. In the early stages she’ll always be learning the ropes and will also take the time before she fully understands each of the house rules. Give her time to learn the principles and be sure you devote a number of your own time to help her learn. Keep things from her reach and it’ll make things go much smoother.