We all love our furry friends and feel happy when they become part of our lives. But we fear and dislike those moments when we find our dog chewing on furniture, wires, and other household items, leaving behind a trail of damaged belongings. That’s why today we’ll talk about the reasons behind this behavior and figure out what to do in such cases, how to act correctly, and where to start.
Chewing and tearing things apart is especially common in puppies, but even adult dogs can exhibit this behavior.
It’s important and useful to understand the exact reason behind your dog’s behavior and how to address it. So, let’s dive deeper and start with the main question — the cause.
Why do dogs chew on things?
First and foremost, this behavior stems from natural instincts, a desire, and a need to satisfy their hunting instinct.
Several factors can also contribute to this behavior, with the most common being stress, boredom, and lack of activity.
Another possible explanation is health issues, such as problems with teeth or gums.
As for puppies, they may chew on things for their own specific reasons
This could simply be curiosity about the world and an instinct to explore. Puppies, like children, learn about their environment and discover new objects by using their mouths. Chewing also becomes more prominent during the teething phase when baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones. Another reason for this behavior at a young age is the lack of training and discipline.
To reduce the list of possible reasons behind your pet’s behavior, try creating a safe and comfortable environment. Take your dog for regular walks, engage in various activities, and train together—this not only helps with understanding each other but also plays a key role in proper upbringing. Ensure that your pup is not experiencing stress, and if it is, try to minimize it as much as possible.
To truly understand why your dog behaves this way and how long this phase will last, you need to learn to read your pet’s behavior.
How to teach your dog to chew only allowed items?
Choosing the right chew toys is extremely important.
Just like a child, a dog needs its own toys, and selecting them wisely is essential. They should be engaging for your pet and provide benefits. The key is not to give them all at once, as too many toys can become boring. Instead, rotate them periodically to create the effect of “new” old toys.
Also, don’t forget to use special treats and chew bones.
You can use special sprays with an unpleasant taste to discourage dogs from chewing or scratching inappropriate objects.
These sprays are applied directly to the items that attract your pet’s attention and act as deterrents. They contain herbs and essential oils with a strong, unpleasant smell for animals, along with a bitter taste. After a few attempts to chew on a treated object, the dog will likely stop doing it.
Where to start and how to stop your dog from chewing things?
The first thing to do when you catch your dog in the act is to stop them using a known command or a loud sound. Once they obey and stop chewing, immediately offer a chew toy or a bone they are allowed to chew. When your dog shifts focus to the approved item, be sure to praise them—this reinforces that chewing on the right object is acceptable.
It’s crucial to correct your dog in the moment when they are chewing on something inappropriate, not after the damage is done. If you scold them later, they won’t understand why they’re being punished.
Instead of punishing your dog for chewing, provide them with an alternative. Show them what they can chew to satisfy their need.
Remember, this method needs to be repeated multiple times to reinforce the lesson. Raising a well-behaved and disciplined dog requires effort, knowledge, and most importantly, patience.
Additional tips from the experts at V.O.G DOG SALON:
It is very important to walk your dog regularly and sufficiently. The exact amount of time depends on your pet’s breed and personality, so your dog will be the best indicator of its needs. On average, walks should last between 30 minutes to an hour, two to three times a day.
To ensure your dog is well-behaved and disciplined, you need to dedicate time to training. This will help you understand your pet’s specific needs, build a strong connection, and teach essential skills for a comfortable life together.
Don’t forget about grooming, which is an essential part of your dog’s care and hygiene.
While your pup is learning what is acceptable to chew and what is not, it’s important to create a safe environment. Simply remove unnecessary decorative items, avoid leaving bags, boxes, or small objects within reach, and make sure to keep cabinets, drawers, and cupboards closed.
If you suspect that your dog’s destructive behavior is due to health issues, consult a veterinarian.
We wish you luck and patience in raising your four-legged friend. Remember, your pet needs your attention and love.
