Dog Chewing
Dog Training Chewing
A common problem we dog owners have is that we tend to assume our dogs behave a certain way for the same reasons we might choose a behavior. That simply isn't true. Chewing is an activity that experienced dog owners know to expect when a new puppy comes into the home. It's nothing personal. Chewing is just a pleasant and instinctive thing that dogs do because they enjoy it. They aren't actually out for revenge when they chew up your gloves or gnaw the corner off the coffee table. Shoes, gloves and other articles make of leather are favorites for most dogs because of the texture, taste and the smell. These things often smell like their favorite thing in the world. Flattering, you say, but still a problem. The good news is that this behavior is quite correctable.
Stop Chewing: Number One Dog Training Guide
To begin with, see to it that your dog, especially if it's a puppy, has plenty of appropriate chew toys. Puppies are most likely to develop serious chewing issues between three and six months as they are getting their adult teeth. They really need the chewing activity to help the new teeth come in. This is a crucial time to be sure they have toys they enjoy. Chew toys that can be frozen help to ease the pain of teething at this stage. It is a nu science but it doesn't last forever. Another thing to keep in mind is that puppies often engage in a behavior called, ”mouthing,” which is more of an attempt to learn about an object than to chew them up. Watch your puppy to determine if this what he's doing or if he really is intent upon the destruction of you favorite hand bag or catchers mit. Be careful to keep chew toys size-appropriate for your dog. Small breeds can't enjoy huge objects and big puppies could swallow the tiny versions meant for the toys breeds.
Remove the things that he shouldn't have from the environment. A crate or puppy pen may be necessary early on to contain him when you can't be present. When you choose the toys get a variety to begin with and then take note of what he likes best. Dogs are very individualistic. Add more of his favorites to the collection as time passes. Praise him every time you see he's chewing on the correct things. When you see he has something that's off limits just calmly tell him, “No.” Give him an approved toy and praise him lavishly when he picks it up.
As with any behavior, you can cut down on negative actions by being careful to provide you dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Boredom, especially in older dogs, can lead to bad habits. Take plenty of walks and spend time playing with him. The puzzle toys that allow you to put food inside which the dog can then try to get to will entertain a puppy for hours.
If you have a dedicated chewer in the house remember that dogs learn from one another. Puppies can pick up bad habits if they're allowed to spend lots of time with a hardcore chewer. It is true that having a companion will cut down on boredom for your dog, but it's also true that they may both decide that chewing looks like a great hobby. If you have more than one dog be careful to provide plenty of toys so that the dominate animal won't take over, leaving nothing for the other to chew. The dominate dog will try to horde the toys so you may need several, more than one for each dog.
Stop Chewing: Number One Dog Training Guide
There are commercial sprays available to discourage chewing. You can mix up an effective deterrent at home. To protect furnishings a weak vinegar solution, one part vinegar to six parts water, is effective. Check it on a small area to be sure you don't damage the item.
Puppies are bound to chew as they get their new teeth. Older dogs often resort to problem chewing as a result of boredom and pent-up energy. Remember, it's an instinctive and pleasurable behavior for them, not a plot for revenge. The best thing you can do is to provide plenty of exercise and interest and lots of chew toys for your pets. Good luck with your dog chewing issues.
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Sincerely
Mike Stronghill
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